Dear Brother Who Is Not So Little Anymore,

Happy Birthday.

First of all, I know I didn't get you a tangible gift (yet), but I do hope that you like this small message to you. This may be a week late but, hey, I hope it is special.

Congratulations on turning eighteen. You have come a long way. You've grown up and become a semi-decent guy whom I will always love and support. From not being able to fix yourself a cheese sandwich, to making the best buttery grilled cheeses you have done it all. There is still a really long way to go. There are a lot of things you think you understand, but you don't yet. With time, you will master that along with all the other things you have mastered in your life.

I want you to know that although you have increased your age by one, the expectations that others will have for you and the responsibilities bestowed to you will increase exponentially. And, no, you cannot reply to this message with the saying "age is but a number."

Now I know that you have been through a lot, but as you say, even though I want to feel bad for you, we all have our own problems to deal with. Haha. But seriously, I'm going to give you my two cents since this is my article.

You have to be strong and live for yourself. You have to enjoy, but take your responsibilities seriously. You have to understand that the decisions you make may have bigger consequences now. Remember to watch what you say and what you think. Sometimes, when we are angry or frustrated, we say things that we may later regret. You are older now, so maybe take a few more moments and really think about whether you want to do or say something with a cooler mind.

Oh, I almost forgot one of the most important things. You have to realize that you need to vote in this 2016 presidential election because I cannot and because we have to save America.

In all seriousness, eighteen is an eventful age. High school ends, college begins, you make friends, you lose friends and you get to test your boundaries in various different areas of your life. Enjoy it all and live in the moment, but don't forget to think about things with a bigger picture as well. That doesn't mean you should have to settle for anything, but remember that sometimes compromising doesn't mean you lose.

Happy 18th birthday. To me you will always be my baby brother and your chewing will annoy me forever. There are some things that just won't ever change. Enjoy 18 and make the best of it.

Love,
Your sister.