My sister is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. She's almost five years older than me, and ever since I was born, we've been best friends. I think God knew we needed each other in life, for without one another, life just wouldn’t be the same. We can be the best of friends or the worst of enemies, but no matter what, at the end of the day, we're right there for one another, no matter what.

After 20 years of living life with her, I realized some things that occur when you have a sister as a built-in best friend.

1. You’re friends forever.

She has been there with you every second of every day. Therefore, she has seen you at your best and at your absolute worst and yet, she chose to love you through it all. Then again, she is your sister…she didn’t really have a choice, now did she? Because you two have been there through it all together, you know every hidden secret and have a strong foundation based off trust. There's basically nothing that can break two sisters apart, because sisters are forever. You have a forever lunch date buddy, so you never have to know what it’s like to eat out alone. You will forever have someone to call up at 2 a.m. when you can’t sleep. You will forever have someone who will tell you how it is. You have a forever friend.

2. You have a built-in maid of honor.

You two have dreamt about your weddings since the beginning of time. You've even acted it out, having your stuffed animals play the part of your guests, and you would pick out the “most fanciest” princess dress from your dress up box for your wedding dress. No matter what stuffed animal got to attend your wedding or what princess dress you wore, one thing was for sure: Your sister was always the maid of honor. And when that special day actually comes, that will hold true, and you wouldn’t have it any other way.

3. You always have someone to relate to.

Only she can understand the craziness that can sometimes occur in the family, and doesn’t let you go through it alone. A lot of times, you both are going through similar trials and experiences. You never have to shed a tear alone. Because when no one else understands you, you'll always have your sister and best friend there to listen to every single detail. She'll always be there to love you, laugh with you, cry with you and support you through it all.

4. You always have a second opinion…even when it’s not asked for.

Whether it’s what to tell someone, what meal to order or what to wear, she'll always give you her opinion. At times, it can be annoying, but most the time, she's the force that can save you from a complete disaster. And of course, her opinion in boys is a must! If she doesn’t like him, then it’s a no-go for sure. You know her opinion will always matter in the end…even if you don’t ask for it.

5. She will always have your back.

She may not always agree with you or the choices you make, but she'll always fight for you, no ifs, ands or buts. A sister will always have the other’s back, no matter the situation. And if someone tries to trash talk you behind your back, you know your sister will be right there putting them in their place. Because that’s part of being best friends. You've got the other’s back, always and forever.

6. You’re proud of her.

When people ask, “Do you have any siblings?” you light up and start to ramble on and on about your sister. You could go on forever and brag about how wonderful and bright she is. You're proud of who she is and the person she's become. You are proud that you have a role model like her, and only hope to be just like her. You are proud that she stood by you through it all, and that she supported, cared and loved you always. You are proud to say your sister is your best friend. Always and forever.