Growing up I always wanted an older sister—someone I could talk to about all the many female problems we face on the daily or even something as simple as sharing clothes and shoes. Of course as time went on I realized that I was stuck with my older brother, Vishi, and those dreams of having a cute sister-sister relationship faded away. As many of my family and friends know, my opinion on having a brother has clearly changed because they know how much he means to me and how close our bond is. He is older to me by five years yet he is also my best friend and I am forever grateful to him because a big part of who I am today is due to his guidance and support. Recently however, he did grant me the unrealistic wish I made as a young girl of having an older sister—he fell in love and got married to an amazing person named Shilpa, who I am proud to call my sister-in-law (Vadina). Unfortunately, I did not get to give a speech at the wedding, so here it is… almost three weeks later (sorry!).

Dear Vishi,

Since we were little, we always had random fights and differed on countless arguments but one thing always remained the same—we could never be angry at each other because we would start joking around within the next few minutes. This has been constant and holds true to this day. Those “fights” now remain as funny memories that I will always look back on and laugh about. Of course there were those serious times when I was scared about what I would do if you left for college or got married because I worried about whether we would still be as close as we were. I am so happy that you dispelled any worries I once had by finding someone as genuine and loving as Shilpa. As soon as I met her, I knew that I had nothing to worry about because of how well she blended with our family and how well you two connected. Thank you for being my voice of reason when I am being irrational, thank you for being my rock when I feel like I have nobody to talk to, and thank you for being the most loving big brother a girl could ever ask for.

Dear Vadina,

I cannot believe that I finally get to call you my sister-in-law! I have been thinking about this since I was a little kid and now that random thought has become a reality. As you obviously know, me and Vishi are pretty crazy so I would just like to say thank you for putting up with our shenanigans, I really don’t know who else would have the patience for two goofs like us, and I am so grateful for that. Most importantly, I am grateful that you understand us and our antics and at the same time bring in something new and fun to our family. You know that I have always wanted an older sister and now I finally have you to fill that void. Your kind and caring nature is something I have always admired and I am so glad that I can look up to someone like you. Thank you for treating me like I am your own sister rather than just a sister-in-law—I truly appreciate the strength you share and the strength that you encourage me to have. I can’t wait for all the fun times ahead and all the memories we will make together in the future.

Cheers to the happy couple, I will always love you both.