When I was born, my sister was 10 years old. She didn't want me because she had lived 10 years being an only child and she didn't want anyone stealing that spotlight. Even though she didn't want me as a sister, it was nice having someone to look up to in my eyes. I had someone who had been through it all and I have learned so much from her.

Boys can be dumb.

Getting your heart broken is never easy. Seeing her get her heart broken wasn't easy either. But it's nice having someone there to tell you, "He doesn't even deserve you!" and, "It's okay, I've been there."

I had a free tutor.

I could never have gotten through algebra or writing all of those English papers without her skills. She taught me new ways to look at a problem and to solve it differently. Also, I probably wouldn't have gone to college if she never did. She inspired me to go as far as I could go because education is something no one can take from you.

I always have a second home.

Anytime I need a snack or want to play with my niece I always know I can go there for a pick-me-up. But more than that, I can always go there to talk about anything and I know she won't mind.

If you don't like it in the store, don't buy it.

This has always been 100 percent true for me about everything I buy. Whether it's a dress or a pair of boots, if you don't really like it in the store and it doesn't make you feel confident, don't buy it. You'll never wear it.

Never lie to your parents.

Period. Especially if you live in a small town and everyone knows your dad. Word travels fast and it's easier if they hear it from you first.

If you're going to a party, be smart.

Always go with friends. Always make your own drink. Never leave by yourself. Never leave your drink and then pick it back up. These proverbs have been drilled in my head since high school and I thank God I've been taught them.

Follow Jesus because it's your own faith -- not because it's Mom and Dad's.

Being raised in a Christian household, it's easy to just go to church because you're told to. But actually making the choice to go yourself because you want to is different. It means it's your own faith. Watching her make that choice every Sunday and bring my niece with her is a testament that her following Jesus is her own faith.

Even though there's a big age gap between us, I wouldn't have it any other way. I could never thank her enough to have learned from her mistakes and pass along the life lessons she has taught me.