I often think one of the greatest blessings in life is having a big sister. Although, more often than not, you end up fighting with each other, "hating" each other and tons of other things. But as you get older, you begin to learn that one of the greatest things that will ever happen to you is having an older sister.

When you're little, you want to do everything your big sister does. You want to play with the toys she plays with, wear the clothes she wears; you want to be your big sister. And, honestly, I strongly believe that that never changes. You always aspire to be like your big sister. From a young age, your sister is always your role model. When you grow up, you want to be just like her. In your eyes, your big sister is the greatest person ever, next to your mom, of course.

I think more often than not, you forget to thank your sister. You forget about all the times she was there for you. All the lessons she's taught you along the way. And so much more than that. There are plenty of times when you've "hated" your sister. She didn't let you wear that really cute sweater to that party. She didn't let you take the car to the mall when yours was broken. She pushed you out of your barbie jeep. The list is never ending.

But for all the things you "hated" your sister for, she has taught you so much more. She taught you that no boy is worth your tears. That anyone who would talk bad about you isn't worth your time. She taught you that you don't take anything from anyone, and you always stick up for yourself. She taught you what alcohol mixes with the best drink. And the ever so important, "Liquor before beer you're in the clear. Beer before liquor, you're going to be sicker."

Your sister was your first best friend, and the only one you will always have. Your sister will be by your side when your boyfriend breaks up with you, or when your "friends" leave you out of a trip to the mall. She'll love you when a lot of people don't. And stick by your side when a lot of people won't.

So take a second to thank your sister. She put up with you your whole life thus far, and will continue to for the rest of forever. Thank her for her constant love. Thank her for being your No. 1 fan. Thank her for always protecting you. And most of all, thank her for teaching you to protect yourself. At the end of the day, if she doesn't protect you and you don't protect yourself, no one will.

***I want to dedicate this article to my big sister, Lauren. Thank you for your constant support and always being there for me. I love you.