To my beautiful, smart and loving Little Sister,
It’s just now hitting me that you’re about to begin a new chapter in your life. You’re starting college in the fall and I can’t believe that you’ll be an adult in the real world. I’m writing this because I want you to know some things I wish I had known as a freshman in college. I’m writing this because I don’t want you to make the same mistakes I made. I don’t want you to feel the same things I felt.
1. Never give up.
There are going to be times you want to give up. You’re going to feel like you’re not good enough and you’re not smart enough. You’re going to feel like nothing is going the way you want. Most of all, you’re going to feel completely lost. Well, I’m here to tell you that it will all be okay. These thoughts that get in your head aren’t true. You’re more than good enough and you’re more than capable of achieving your goals. The times when you feel confused and lost won’t be easy. None of this will be easy, but you’re going to get through it. It’s okay to not have it all figured out yet. You have plenty of time to figure things out, so don’t stress. You can do anything you put your mind to.
2. You gain some, you lose some.
The friends you have now might be your friends later. They might not. People grow apart. It’s natural for people to simply grow apart. Don’t worry, they didn’t forget about you. They still love you. They are just in different stages in their life, just as you are. They are trying to figure themselves out just as you are and sometimes, the friendships just aren’t the same anymore. You’re going to make friendships with the people in your new life that will last a lifetime. You are a beautiful person and everyone around you will love you.
3. Family is important.
Something I learned is that family is one of the most important things in life. They will always have your back. Unlike friends, they won’t grow apart from you. They are there for you for life. Most importantly, I will be here for you for life. I want you to know that I am a phone call or a text away if you ever need anything. I want to be the person you trust to go to for anything. I can try to help you through your struggles.
4. Boys will be boys.
This is a struggle I had. Learn from me. You need to focus on your life goals and not your relationships. Relationships come and go, but your future is yours to find and explore. I let relationships and boys get in the way of my future. I’m telling you now that it is not worth it at all. Don’t even stress about a guy. In the long run, the boys that got in the way won’t matter so don’t let it matter now. Some relationships are temporary but your future is the rest of your life. Don’t let anyone block your path.
5. Love yourself.
I put this last because it is the most important. This has been my struggle. You can’t reach your goals or be your best self if you don’t love yourself. Do what you need to do to be you. Try new things and find things that you love to do. Don’t let anyone define you. You are the only one who can define you. Always remember that you are beautiful, inside and out. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. This new chapter in your life is your journey to finding yourself. During this journey, never forget that you are a strong, independent, smart and incredible young woman. You are so important and you will accomplish great things in life.
Lastly, I hope that I was a good role model for you. I tried to be the best big sister I could be through the years. I will always be your sister and will strive to be the best role model for you throughout our lives. I love you with all of my heart. You are the best gift God has ever given me.
Love you always,
Your Big Sister
