My little sister is undoubtedly my biggest blessing. She's my baby sister, the person I want to look out for and see succeed. She's my go-to best friend, the girl who I can always trust to give me honest fashion advice and the person who can always make me laugh. I've been lucky enough to face life first, to have experiences and failures that I can now use to teach her to be a better person. There are lessons I've earned along the way that have helped me be the person I am now, and I want nothing more than to share them with her.
1. Change can be good, if you're ready for it.
Never let anyone change who you are, unless you feel it's time to make a positive change in your life. You should never feel obligated to change the wonderful person that you are. With that being said, don't be afraid to open yourself to chances that could have a positive influence on your life, you might be thankful for it.
2. That boy isn't worth your tears.
You are strong, independent and beautiful. You should never give your time to someone who doesn't appreciate that. You always deserve better than someone who can't see all of the power you hold. There will be a lot boys, and you should never let yourself lose your happiness over any of them.
3. Surround yourself with people who make you happy.
You're under no obligation to spend time with people who don't serve a positive purpose in your life. It's okay to lose friends, to end relationships and to have change in your social circle. Life is much more enjoyable when you get to share it with those who you truly care about.
4. Your beauty is not just skin deep.
I've been there for the braces and pimples, the awkward middle school years, and now get to see you grow into the beautiful sister that you are today. Your beauty goes much deeper than what we can see, your soul and your heart are full of love and strength. You have beautiful face and a soul to match, never let anyone make you feel like that isn't true.
5. Always stand up for what you think is right.
If you believe in something, stand up for it. Be the one to share a smile, to help someone up and to advocate for those without a voice. Being a good person will never go out of style, and you'll never regret taking a stand against something you feel to be wrong.
6. If you ever think that things can't get better, you're wrong.
If there's ever a day when you're feeling like things aren't going to change, remember that the best is yet to come. You will get through it, you will be stronger because of it and things will turn out okay. It may not be today or tomorrow, but there are better days ahead.
7. Try not to take yourself too seriously.
A sense of humor will always be something you need. Never think that you're too mature for cartoons or those Disney Channel shows that we always loved. Be able to laugh at your mistakes. Life is much more fun when you're able to laugh.
8. Trying hard in school is going to pay off.
It may not seem important now, but studying for that algebra test and taking an extra minute to double check your essay is going to be worth it. Education is power. Since you've been lucky enough to receive it, make the most of it. You will never regret the knowledge you've gained and the lessons you've learned.
9. Forgive yourself and move on.
You're only human. You're going to say things you wish you hadn't, make choices you wish you could take back and mistakes that you think are the end of the world. You're going to be fine. Take that stumbling and learn from it. Don't dwell on what you can't change, grow from what you can now see.
10. What other people think of you is none of your business.
There is always going to be someone who doesn't like you, and that's fine. If you are able to wake up each morning as someone who is happy with themselves, than that is all you need. Don't get caught up in trying to change people's opinions of you, because what they think of you doesn't matter.
11. Take a deep breath and look around.
With all the craziness going on in the world, take a second each day to appreciate the sun and the sky. Creating a positive mindset will always be helpful. Be grateful and appreciative of the life you've been given.
