Dear Shashank,

I want to start off correcting a thought that you always seem to have. I love you more than anything. Yes, you can be so annoying sometimes to the point where I yell "I hate you" or start screaming at you when you do something wrong, but no matter what, always know that I love you and I will always be there for you.

It's a well-known fact that all siblings fight. There can never be a perfect relationship between two family members, but what matters most is your true intentions behind every fight. I don't just yell at you because I am genuinely angry with you or because I can't stand you. It's simply because I want to teach you right from wrong so that you can take the correct path in life.

I care about you from the bottom of my heart, and I always, always want the best for you. If I had to choose one person who I have learned the most from in life, I would have to say it would be you. Every time I try to tell you a story from my life or give you advice on what to do in your future, it teaches me about what I did right vs. wrong myself. You help me reflect back on my choices and effectively pass on lessons that I have learned. You bring out the teacher in me and help me grow with each and every one of those steps.

Sometimes, it really sucks to be the guinea pig of the house as the older sibling. But it makes me happy to know that I can make a positive impact on your life. Amma and Nana are always telling you how smart and capable you are to accomplish whatever you desire. And if we were both the same age, you would definitely be so much smarter than me! Every time that I help you with homework or a project, you also teach me new information, help me refresh my memory, and develop my knowledge.

More than anything, thank you for being one of the best friends I can ask for. I may not hang out at places with you or spend time with you at school everyday, but when I come home everyday, I am always excited to see you and talk openly with you. Every night before we go to bed, those serious and deep conversations help me develop as a person. Most importantly, our periodic ranting sessions really relax me, and there is no one else I can rant to like I rant to you.

We may be four years apart, but when we sit down and just talk about life, I feel like your age is no different from mine. Don't get me wrong - yes, of course, there are many, many times when you act immature and lazy, but in the end, I always know that your heart is filled with love and the desire to do good in the world.

I never want you to grow up and leave my side, but alas, that can never be reality. I remember how you used to always hide behind me (actually you still do) when we go to anyone's house. You stay with me and in your comfort zone, and it means the world to me to know that you always want to be close to me.

You may not be the tiny, curly-haired, high-pitch-voiced kid anymore, but you will always be my baby brother. And I know you will always be there to look after me, as promised when I tie your rakhi every year.

I love you to the moon and back, and I don't even have to wish you best of luck for your future because I know that you will be successful no matter what you do and will continue to spread smiles around.

Love,

Akka