To My Better Half:

First off, I would like to apologize for being so far away from you during the most dramatic years of your life. I could only imagine how annoying high school is without having the resource of an older sister right by your side. Believe it or not, you were a huge part of my college decision. I continually thought about how you would survive without me and honestly, how I would survive without you.

Thankfully, I have had a lot of faith in Mom and Dad. Having them reassure me that you are fine and okay on your own, definitely helps me go about my day. On the other hand, there are definitely times I await those late night texts reading, “Omg Mom and Dad are being so difficult” or “Karina, why did you leave me here to deal with all these new things on my own.”

But to be honest, I only left because I knew you could handle it. I knew that adjusting to becoming the “only child” in a sense, would grow on you. I’m sure it still hasn’t, but eventually it will get there. There is so much I know you will learn from being on your own at home with Mom and Dad.

Eventually, you will learn that Mom gets annoyed when she has to drive you to school just because you wanted to sleep in a little longer. You will learn that Dad may ask you to bring him a glass of milk the minute you close your door to go to bed. You will learn that Mom is worried about you every second, minute, hour of every day even if it is for absolutely no reason. You will learn that Dad will constantly be on your case about balancing your school work and your social life. You may even learn that Dad refuses to accept the fact that you may start dating. But most importantly, you will learn how high school forms you into you.

I mentioned before that high school holds the most dramatic years of your life, and I mean it. You will have those really good days and those extremely terrible ones. You will have that one test you studied really hard for and that other test you wish you studied for. You will come across that one boy that couldn’t like you more and that one boy who you can’t seem to get over. You will have that embarrassing moment you wish no one witnessed and that other moment you hope everyone was there to watch.

The bottom line is that high school is full of ups and downs. But it gets you ready for the upcoming stress, heartbreak, surprises, and obstacles of college.

So sis, just remember that every annoying thing Mom or Dad says is a daily reminder that you will genuinely miss one day when you’re miles from home. Remember that every bad day means that a good one is soon coming. Remember that every failed test is an opportunity to learn and improve. Remember that every breakup means it’s time to focus on just you.

I may be miles away but that doesn’t mean I can’t be here for you any less than I would be if I were home. I love you endlessly.

Love Always,

Your Big Sis