I grew up as an only child, but that did not rob me of my ability to have a sister. Most people think of sisters as two or more girls related to each other because they have the same parents, but I do not see it that way at all. Sisters, to me, are girls that share such a strong bond that they can have a complete conversation with just one look from across the room. Sisters are two girls with a never-ending love for one another regardless of what may get between them, big or small. A sister is someone who believes in you more than you have ever believed in yourself, someone who has seen you at your worst and your best and loves you just the same. Most of all, a sister is someone who you can’t picture your life without and you know that as long as you’re both on this planet you’ll never have to. So, no, I do not have a biological sister that shares the same parents as me, but I do have a sister that meets every other requirement there is.

I met my sister while I was in eighth grade. Our friendship was instant, but I never imagined in that moment that I had just met my life long best friend. From hundreds of sleepovers, shared meals and shared clothes we became closer than friends, we became family. Over the past seven years, we have experienced and achieved so much side by side, even when obstacles attempted to pull us apart.

After middle school we went to rival high schools, and now we attend colleges in completely different states. However, our bond has only grown stronger with each passing year, and that is one reason I know she is my sister. I know she is my sister because we have carried each other through every single high and low life has had to hand us. From the pains of family deaths, broken hearts, and mental struggles to the joys of reaching goals, testing limits, and starting new beginnings. Since the day we met I have never doubted the support I would give and receive from her, and to me that is what sisters share.

To all the women out there, whether you are 5 or 45, I hope you have the chance in your life to meet another woman you can consider a sister, whether they be biological or not. Someone who lifts you up and watches your back. Someone who will stand by your side through thick and thin, and defend you in any circumstance. Someone who is always rooting for you to win, and is your number one fan. Because in a world where women are so often are out to tear each other down, every girl needs someone to take on life by their side. I always know that whatever may be changing in my life my sister is my constant, and that is something I think everyone should have.

So to my (unbiological) sister,

You are amazing. You are one of the only people I know that I can tell absolutely anything and not ever have to worry about being judged. You are quite literally my partner in crime. You never fail to make me smile, you lift my spirits when I can’t, and you fill my heart with more love than I can comprehend. You are an amazing human, you inspire me every day and I am so beyond lucky to have you. Our blood may not run from the same place but our souls are connected for life, sisters at heart forever and ever. Thank you for being you. I love you, Cass.