Without a doubt, I would not be the person who I am today without my little sister. She was (and still is) my closest companion, my go-to accomplice, and my best friend; I couldn't imagine life without her.
Unfortunately, reality swept me off to college. I don't have the same time or freedom to sit down for our video game marathons, to go on our infamous sister dates, or to hang out in my room and talk for hours, like we so much love to do.
But even while I'm away, I have 5 pieces of important advice that she would no doubt benefit from hearing. I may not always be home, but I won't ever stop looking out for her:
1. You have become an incredible person.
I know you can't see yourself from my point of view, but believe me when I say that you are absolutely incredible. You were always so sweet and compassionate growing up, and now those qualities have blossomed into a passion for following your dreams, and a hilarious, fun-loving spirit. Furthermore, I think you're beautiful, hard-working, and intensely selfless. So while it's a time-old trope for little girls to look up to their big sisters, in this case, I always admire you.
2. Your insecurities do not define you.
You and I are very much alike with how we see and think about ourselves; our modesty often turns into self-deprecation, and to say the least, those thoughts can be consuming. However, I want you to realize that haunting insecurities are your mind's way of being self-critical. They're deceptive, imaginary thoughts, and they do not change anything about who you truly are. So the next time you start tearing yourself apart unnecessarily, I hope you'll remember that you don't need to let your imagination control your happiness.
3. It's okay to not be okay sometimes.
Regardless of my previous advice, I know that it's impossible to ward off sadness 100% of the time. After all, we're human. And part of what makes us human is the ability to think and feel in complex and profound ways. All the same, even when you're not entirely okay, I want you to keep in mind that things will always get better. Just give it time, surround yourself with people who love you, and take care of yourself both physically and emotionally.
4. You are never alone.
By now, you should know that I would do anything for you regardless of date, time, or circumstance. I never want you to feel hopeless or alone, so I mean it when I promise that all you have to do is say the word. Is it the middle of the night and you need a sister hug? My phone will always be on. Are you sick, need a ride, or have juicy gossip to share? Send me a text and I'll be on my way. No matter what, you'll always have a person who's there for you.
5. You are my best friend and I love you.
Even after all these years, I cherish having you as my sister. You make my life fun, we share countless experiences and memories together, and I feel like you understand me better than anyone. So even as life takes us in two different directions, never forget how much I love you. You are my sister by chance, but my best friend by choice.
