Dear Big Sis,

This past weekend has been very stressful. We’ve had a lot of emotional moments packed into one short weekend. We moved out of our apartment, sat through three different graduation ceremonies, and finally made the drive home, not knowing exactly what our plans were. All of these moments had a double meaning for me. I was happy to move out of our old, falling-apart apartment, but I was sad because, for the first time in almost 20 years, I won’t be living with you anymore. I was happy to celebrate your college graduation, but I was sad because, for the first time in almost 16 years, we won’t be going to the same school anymore. I was happy to have company driving home, but I was sad because, for the first time in my entire life, I don’t know how long it’ll be until your room is empty for good.

You have always been by my side, literally and figuratively, and it’s going to be weird not having you around all the time. I’ve only known SMU with you here and I don’t know how I’m going to fill the hole of you leaving. We’ve made so many memories together here, from running into your arms on bid day to eating pasta and watching “Undercover Boss.” All of the memories that we’ve made and the time that I’ve gotten to spend with you here, I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

You are my very best friend. As much as you annoy me sometimes, I’m glad that we have a close relationship that not all siblings have. I just want to say a quick "thanks." Thanks for allowing me to be involved in your life and not just watching from the sidelines. Thanks for letting me hang out with your friends, for caring about my friends, for telling me what’s going on in your life, and for being honest with me. Basically, thank you for being the best big sister that a girl could ask for.

Finally, I am so happy for and incredibly proud of you. You have always been such an amazing role model for me. I know that you are going to go out into the world and change so many lives, no matter what you decide to do. I wouldn’t have the work ethic and drive that I have now if I hadn’t seen you do it first. You are so smart and so caring. Everything that you do is done so deeply. Not a lot of people feel as strongly as you do. As cliché as it is, I know that you are going to do great things. How could a person who cares so much not do well?

I will love you always!

Love,

Your Little Sister