My little sister,

Before you set out to start your new life, there are some things I want you to know. When you were born I was a teenager, not sure where I belonged in the world. I hate to admit that at first I wasn't too happy to have you around. I was selfish and didn't want this change in my life. Before I knew it, a bond with you formed that would only grow stronger over time. I loved you and I wanted to protect you, and I believe you came into my life at a time that I really needed help. I watched you grow from a tiny baby into a happy, curious toddler. You were always so happy and what amazed me the most was how much you loved me and how much I adored you. I never knew how much I had wanted a sibling until you came along.

I wasn't always the best sister I should have been. As teenagers usually do, I eventually wanted to have more freedom. I did things I will always regret. I am sorry I wasn't there for you as much as I should have been. When you became an aunt at five years old you were so excited. You showered her with love and attention. Once again I was amazed at how loving and caring you were.

As you grew older your personality became so bright and contagious. You loved with all your heart and your smile always brightened everyone's day. I valued any time I got to spend with you, as you were becoming a teenager and I was now a wife and a mom. I often wish I had spent more time with you. I wish I could have given you all the advice you should have gotten from an older sister. I tried my best and I hope you know that. I hope that you know your presence would always cheer me up when I needed it and I hope you know that I was always proud of you.

As much as I tried to fight it, your wedding day came. I was so happy for you because I knew you had found the man who was perfect for you in every way. I was also fighting back tears because I knew I wouldn't be around you nearly as much as I had before. I knew you were happy that you would be moving further away to pursue your dreams and you would have the perfect man by your side. I am not sure you know all the tears I shed that day, I was missing you already and you weren't even gone.

I will never forget that day. I could see how happy and excited you were as I watched them turn you into such a beautiful bride, your natural beauty and contagious personality shining through. I watched in awe as you entered the church, your smile shining so bright. I turned to see your soulmate smiling just as bright with tears in his eyes. At that moment I could see how strong the love between you both was and I knew you were ready for the next chapter in your life. No matter how much it would hurt, I felt so much happiness that day and came to the realization this wasn't goodbye it was see you soon.

Before you go, please remember you will always be on my mind and in my heart. You will be in my thoughts every day. Even though you are married and all grown up, I will worry about you constantly. Please remember, my dear sister, how much I love and care for you. Never forget how beautiful, caring, and loving you are. Never lose that smile that can outshine anything or your silliness and joy you carry with you everywhere. Before you go, please remember to never doubt yourself. I have watched you grow into this amazing woman and I know you can do anything. Before you go, always remember the bond you both have and that love I saw on your wedding day. Things may not always go smoothly, but that's why you have someone to hold onto through the strongest storm. I know he will protect you and love you with everything he has. He was made for you and that makes it a little easier to let you go.

~Before you go remember you will always be my little sister