Dear Xavier,
I miss you. There's not a day that goes by that I don't think about how you're doing or what you could possibly be up to. It's weird not having my best friend and my favorite big brother (even though you're my only big brother) here to pick on me all of the time and give me advice. I haven't heard your voice or seen your face in two years to date, but that's not something you have control over. Between your security clearance and a busy schedule, I can only imagine how busy your days can get. No matter where you go or what you do, you always try your hardest and put your heart and soul into it. You inspire me to keep pushing forward even when I feel like giving up. The cards you have been dealt in this lifetime haven't been the best, but you have always risen above and became the amazing person you are today.
Growing up I've always looked up to you, naturally, as all little sisters would. Throughout our lives you have always protected me, from the kiddos bullying me on the playground to those talks about meeting future boyfriends and intimidating them. The summer before you left for bootcamp we were sitting at mom's kitchen table and that was one of the most raw, memorable talks that we've ever had. It was the first time in your life that you didn't have an answer for everything. We talked about your painful history and the confusions of not knowing what to do with the rest of your life. And that was one of the first times I was left speechless, feeling your troubles in my heart and searching for a rational explanation to give you. You had weighed out all of your options, going to school then working full-time at something that didn't interest you, you felt lost and confused. In four short months you had aced the ASVAB and received your top choice occupation with the United States Air Force.
Two days before Thanksgiving, you left for bootcamp. I wasn't expecting you to leave so soon, considering you weren't supposed to leave until March of the following year. I had an hour to say goodbye until we had to drop you off with the recruiter; it was a strange goodbye because it felt like it was the end of something old and the start of something scarily new. I got to travel to San Antonio, Texas to see you and all of the hard work you have gone through to become an Airman. Four days later, I was saying goodbye and once again felt that shattering, like I was saying farewell to someone for a long while.You excelled in all of your classes, graduated with honors, and started your first job-- already eager to apply for leadership positions and advance in your rank. Since then, I had talked to you on the phone once and received the flowers you sent on my birthday.
Even though I haven't spoken to you, in for what feels like, forever, I know that you'll always love and care about me. You are an incredibly strong individual and I hope one day I can have half the heart that you do. I'm a proud little sister and, honestly, who wouldn't be when they are lucky enough to have a brother like you?
With love,
Your Little Sister
