To My Little Sister,
Growing up is hard, it just is, but you don't have to do it alone. I've always got your back. Right now the future seems forever away, and you should keep on believing that with all your heart. But before you know it, it will be here. And when it gets here, embrace it, but for now just be little. Don't worry about what college you are going to go to or what color your prom dress will be. Watch Disney Channel, and eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day.
At the moment, what I'm going to tell you won't mean very much. But one day when life hits you hard, I hope you'll find this letter again, and know that you are never alone because you've got a friend in me, and you always will.
One of the perks of being a big sister is that you get to do everything first. That includes the good and the bad, but even the bad is worth experiencing if it means that you don't have to make the same mistakes I did. So read closely, and take this to heart.
First of all, girls are mean. It's tough being a girl sometimes. People are going to say things that hurt worse than being punched. There are going to be rumors—people are inevitably going to talk behind your back. And that's okay. Yes, you read that right girlfriend. It will be okay. Because you know what? Those rumors aren't true, and more often than not, those mean remarks are because whoever is saying it feels insecure about them self. So they try to bring you down to make them feel better about themselves.
When those hurtful words come your way, I want you to remember this, and be the bigger person. Don't stoop to their level or start rumors or fire back to get even. Return those hateful words with sweet, kind, encouraging ones. Proverbs 16:24 says, "Kind words are like honey- sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Kill 'em with kindness, and remember it's not what they say about you but what the Father says about you that matters. And He says that you are beautiful (Ecclesiastes 3:11), loved (Romans 5:8), and an incredible work of art (Ephesians 2:10). Not to mention, I think you are pretty great too!
Next, your life is not all about boys. I wish I had understood that a little better when I was younger. A big part of the next chapter of your life is going to be filled with gossip about who is dating whom. And that is great—it definitely makes life a whole lot more interesting! But be careful not to let that consume your entire thought life. If you spend too much time thinking about that super cute boy with a locker right next to yours, chances are you going to miss out on so many priceless moments that you can never get back.
When you do get a boyfriend or "fall in love," please know that you are not defined by your guy. He is not your identity, and he's most likely not going to be there forever. Take time to invest in friendships and people that are going to be there when he changes his mind. You'll need them—I promise. Don't place your value in the way he sees you or even the way he doesn't but in the way that God sees you. Know that I am here to take you out for ice cream during all the heart breaks. Cookie dough makes it a little better too.
Also Mom and Dad are pretty smart. Tell them everything. Trust me—they already know even if they really don't. Let them know what's going on in your life. They want to be there for you, so let them be. Tell them thank you for everything that they do because you are pretty lucky. Listen to their advice. They know what they are talking about, It will save you a whole lot of time and heart ache, if you just listen. They love you so much, and only want what's best for you.
One of the most important lessons I've learned thus far is to take chances. Step outside of your comfort zone. It's going to be awkward, and you are going to feel vulnerable, and none of us like that. But that's when the best parts of life happen. Don't be scared—just do it. Of all the experiences in my life, the best ones have come when I took a chance. It won't always be roses and sunshine either. Sometimes when you take that leap of faith, it hurts, and sometimes you fall and fall hard. You'll begin to doubt whether it was the right decision at all. Don't doubt. Know that you are growing as a person and becoming who God intended for you to be. And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance.
Don't be scared of anything or anybody. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13). The Bible tells us 365 times to not be afraid. That's one for every day of the year! In a world that's a scary place, that's kind of hard to do. But God is in control. Trust Him, and don't be afraid!
Finally, be you! Do whatever makes you happy, not what makes everyone else happy. Never settle for less or less than your best, and always be humble and kind. Smile-- all the time! Don't let anyone take that away from you. Make lots and lots of memories, and take plenty of pictures. Pray every day, and find comfort in the Word of God. Have faith—be patient, and trust God's timing. Lead by example. Be a friend to anyone that needs one, and use the gifts that God has given you to glorify Him.
Always remember that you are beautiful and kind and smart and funny and most importantly, that I love you and am so proud of you! "And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed. Kid, you'll move mountains!" And I can't wait to watch.
Much Love,
Your Big Sister
