First, I want to thank you. You taught me what it means to be a big sister and what it means to have someone look up to me. Most importantly, you forced me to practice patience. You are the best little brother anyone could ever wish for, even after you got an electric toy train stuck in my hair or that time you gave me trumpet grease instead of Chapstick. You may have gotten on my nerves from time to time, but looking back, those are some of my favorite memories.
We’ve had our ups and downs, but here you are–cap and gown in hand, ready to cross that stage and have your diploma handed to you. You made it through every adventure that high school has thrown at you–and you did it with flying colors.
I know high school isn't always a walk in the park, but you’ve always made it look that way. Every lesson you have learned is going to benefit you in some way; never forget that. College is a roller coaster, but it’s what you make of it. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from watching you grow the last 18 years, it’s that you can do anything you set your mind to. You have exemplified that more than anyone else I know.
When you walk across that stage, you are walking into a new phase of your life. It’s going be full of amazing highs and the lowest of lows (say goodbye to sleep), but you are going to do amazing things. Watching you grow up throughout the last four years has been incredible, to say the least. From your first day of high school–watching you navigate the hallways–to your college acceptance letter arriving and, most importantly, watching you grow as an individual who is about to move onto bigger and better things. I’ve swelled with pride every step of the way.
You are about to take your last steps of this journey–culminating with your diploma getting handed to you, flipping your tassel and throwing your cap in celebration. The moment is yours to enjoy and you should enjoy it as much as possible.
Although the high school journey is quickly coming to an end, a new exciting one is about to begin. Hang on tight, little bro. It’s gonna be an amazing ride. Capture the dream.
