Dear Aleviyah,

For 11 years of my life I was an only child, and for those lonely 11 years I wished for a sibling. I got you, and that brightened my entire world. You are graduating kindergarten, and I am in shock. It feels like just yesterday you were crawling around in a diaper, and now suddenly you are a big girl getting ready to get her kindergarten diploma. I've watched you grow. I will be honest, it is sad that you are getting older but I want you to know I will be here with you every step of the way. You do perfect in school, and you're such a caring and loving person. You make me so proud Aleviyah. Please remember these things:

1. With faith you can achieve all things.

If you ever feel as though you cannot do something, remind yourself that you can. If you believe that you can do it, then you can and will do it.

2. Let go and let God.

This is my life motto! There is no need to hang onto grudges, stress, or negative feelings. Don't even worry about issues that will arise in life. God has your back sis!

3. Don't worry, just pray.

Please do not stress yourself out with overthinking, trust me it will drive you insane. You don't have to stay up all night, thinking of what could have been or what has yet to come. Pray about everything. If you're stressed, then pray. If you're worried, then pray. Just pray about everything and anything!

4. Read. Read. Read.

I know you have a love for reading, and please don't let that go away. Reading is fantastic because it has academic and personal benefits. You get to expand your vocabulary, and learn about new topics. The best part about reading is that it allows you to escape reality. Don't ever stop reading.

5. Focus on school.

Education is very important to me, and with an education you will go far in life. Study as much as you can, take classes that interest you, and do well. Always try your best. Ask questions if you don't understand a topic or material. Please don't worry about what the people in school think about you, because they will not help you get somewhere in life. Your education will.

6. Learn many languages.

Even though a lot of people do not like when others speak multiple languages, learning multiple languages is amazing! Your teachers always tell me that you're doing great in your Portuguese class, and I really want you to continue learning Portuguese until you're fluent. Since I work at a store and I speak multiple languages it makes me much more helpful for many customers. Learning a new language is hard, but it's very rewarding and fun.

7. Don't be a bully, and if you see someone being bullied tell a teacher.

So many kids at school get bullied and it really affects them. Watching someone get bullied makes you just as mean, and that isn't good. Just tell a teacher so the bullying issue can be resolved.

8. Don't be afraid to come talk to me.

If you ever have a problem, or just need someone please talk to me. There's no reason to be afraid, or hide anything from me. Chances are I can relate to whatever problem you're having.

9. I will always be here for you.

You will have many failures in life, that is the way life works. However the best part about failure is that you get to learn from your mistakes. I will be there to pick you up when you're down, and help you succeed. I won't laugh at your mistakes. Instead I will help you grow.

10. I truly love you unconditionally.

I really do! You amaze me in so many ways, and you make my world better. Continue to be the sweet person you are. I am so proud to be your big sister!

Aleviyah, always remember these 10 things, they will help you in life. Thank you for being the best sister ever!

Love your sister,

Aaliyah