Dear Sister,

You may not want to hear any of this but, you need to. From when we were kids, our relationship hung in the balance. For one, we are not like the sisters you see in the movies; the ones who braid each other's hair and share big secrets with one another. We once were, back when we were young and unable to stay mad for too long. Now, fighting has become a constant for us. While I don't think either of us really enjoy it (although sometimes I feel like you do), for some reason or another, we generally do not see eye to eye more than we ever do. Sometimes I find myself thinking of where we may have gone wrong, and other days I blame it on how different we are.

Generally, you were never the sentimental one, but as the older sister, I feel it is my duty to take care of you and protect you from the world.

That said, there are some things I want you to know about us. Though there are many things I wish could be different (i.e. your lack of filter), there are also twice as many things I wouldn't change for the world. Like many other sisters, we are too busy bickering and at each other's throats to actually understand the importance of having a sister, and to experience the benefits of this bond we share. So my stubborn, one-track minded, big mouth, monster of a baby sister, here is a list to help remind you of how I'm so happy that we're stuck together forever:

1. You were my first best friend

2. You know everything about me (good, bad, or indifferent)

3. You, (in your own way) are protective

4. You are there to give advice (even when I don't think I need it)

5. You will try to keep me from leaving the house if I'm having a bad hair day, or my clothes don't match

6. You share my sense of humor

7. You share my taste in music

8. You challenge me

9. I can trust you

10. You march to the beat of your own drum

We may not have always been as close as I wished we were, but you are irreplaceable. I think it is a test, having a sister, especially when there are only two of you. Despite all of the madness, the drama, the tears, I would do it all over again (though excluding some of it). Sisters are there for each other through life's most trying moments, and we've been through it all. Even when we don't ever utter a word aloud, our support for one another is unconditional.

I know there will still be days where I will want to lock you outside of the house, and you will want to do the same, but I need you to feel my gratitude. I am one of the very fortunate ones who gets to grow up with a little sister, and I thank you for giving me just as much inspiration as I hope to have done for you.

Love always,

Your Sister