First things first: you will always be my baby sisters. There is no if, ands or buts about this fact. I do not care if you are 40 and 42 and I am 53; you will always be my baby sisters. You will probably always hate being called that but know that having you two as my baby sisters is something I am beyond proud of.
Even though you two are only seven and nine, you have taught me so much. You have taught me how to laugh, especially at myself. Whether it’s dressing up in princess gear, dancing to your favorite songs or just being silly in public, you have taught me that life isn’t always so serious, so we as people shouldn’t be either.
You have also taught me how to appreciate the little things in life. Watching you grow up and your amazement at every little thing really opened my eyes to all the wonders of the world. Even now you can appreciate something as small as a cardboard box and make it into a world of its own.
But the most important thing that you have taught me is how to love, care and protect unconditionally. I was the baby of the family for 11 years and didn’t really have to watch out for anyone. You two make me want to be a better person, someone you can look up to and maybe aspire to be. You will always be a top priority in my life. Your well-being is mine as well.
Now that I have thanked you for everything you have taught me in your short life, there are some things that I want you to know:
I absolutely love and envy your ability to love yourself and the way that you know you are all that and a bag of chips. Do not lose that. The world can be a mean place. Many people will try to tear you down and make you think that you are not worth anything. I need you to know that this isn’t true. You are incredible, intelligent, beautiful, strong and kind girls. Do not believe it when others try to tell you any different. You are capable of everything and anything. Never stop believing in yourself.
Keep your love of people and life. You see the good in everyone and are willing to not judge others based on first appearance. Do not let people convince you that certain types of people are to be treated like they aren’t humans. Be kind to everyone. We are all different but we are all humans. Never forget that.
Keep up your questioning. You are curious little people who will not take a simple yes or no as an answer. Continue to learn and argue. Stand up for what you believe in, even if you are standing alone. Be an advocate for everyone, especially those who may not be able to stand up for themselves. Stay strong and steady in your fight for good. Never give up.
You two are crazy, frustrating, resilient, loving and strong girls. You will become amazing women who will blow us all away. Remember you have people in your corner: your siblings, parents, grandparent, aunts and uncles and countless others along the way. You are never alone.
I love you more than you could ever start to imagine.
Love you more than anything,
One of your big sisters
