Dear Kelly*,
On August 18, you will start middle school. It truly seems like it was only last year you were starting Kindergarten. We've been neighbors for eight years, but it seems like so much longer. I can still remember back to babysitting you when you were much younger. We would make crafts or play Littlest Pet Shop. Then we evolved to playing on our Nintendo DSs or on your computer. Valentine's Day 2014 you and your brother played video games while I stayed in the living room, only there in case of an emergency. But then the days of painting nails, playing dress up, and doing each other’s hair were gone entirely, and you and your brother no longer needed me. I had to move on to three girls, who are also growing up way too fast in front of my eyes.
You have grown into a beautiful, mature, and responsible young lady. Your room is always clean and you get good grades. You stay out of the pre-teen drama that your "friends" try to drag you into. You are the little sister I never had, and I am so proud of you.
Starting middle school is a big step. When I started middle school, I had only a few friends, none of which I was very close to. Be thankful for your dear friends and don’t forget that they may be scared, nervous, or stressed just like you might be. You are smart, and if you start to struggle in middle school, talk to your teachers, or your mom or dad, or even me. I’m pretty good at middle school math. We are all here to help you, and asking for help is not a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength because it shows that you can admit when you need help.
You’ve been through a lot lately. You watched your mom battle – and beat – cancer. You’ve lost ones you love but also gained new people to love. That’s hard, and I know how it feels because I’ve been through it too, both in the past and currently. Life can be hard, especially as you get older; but there’s also a lot of really amazing life experiences ahead of you.
Middle school teachers are some of the most fun teachers I’ve ever had. They are a super special kind of crazy for dealing with your age group. Don’t forget to thank them for what they do.
You’re a cheerleader, something I wanted to be but never was. Keep doing you and stay out of the drama, work hard, and don’t ever forget that you truly love to tumble. Don’t do something if you don’t like it for any reason.
All in all – there’s a lot of people out there who love you and are here for you as you take this big step in your life. Work hard. Stay classy. Be kind to all (even your brother).
Love,
Emily, your former babysitter and forever “big sister”
*Name has been changed for privacy.
