Dearest older sissy,

First off, I just want to say shout out to our parents for having you first. Without you, there’s no way I would be the person I am today. I understand that growing up, we didn’t get along. You pushed my buttons, we fought a good amount, and we were sort of opposites in the sense that I was the princess and you were the tomboy. I remember how Mom would dress us in the same exact outfit and you would throw a hissy fit about it, but I would like it because I was your mini-me. Then when I got older I would steal your clothes and try to be like you because lowkey I admired you even though I made it seem like I hated you a lot of the time. When you would hang out with our friends, I would try my best to be included even if I was younger and didn’t know what you would be talking about most of the time. All along, I just wanted to be accepted by you because at the end of the day, you were my role model.

I’m glad to see that we’ve grown closer over the years. Maybe it was puberty that brought us together or maybe we’ve both matured and put our petty differences away. Honestly, I’ll forever be thankful you sort of bullied me over the years. Now that I’m in college and becoming an adult, I realize that I’m strong because you made me this way. No one else’s criticism matters as much as yours (and maybe mom). I admire your honesty, even if it can be harsh. Who else would have told me my “emo-stage” raccoon eyeliner wasn’t a good idea? You’re my biggest and hardest critic, so no one else can get to me. You’ve also taught me to stand up for myself and not let the little things get to me. Through you I’ve learned that hard times will come, but I have to pick up and keep living my life.

I feel bad for girls who don’t have older sisters because who else would face all the difficult things in life first for you? You paved a path for me. I’ve been able to learn from your mistakes. If you weren’t here, there’s no way I would be the person I have become. I understand that we’re different individuals, but through you I’ve become myself. You accept me and may try to push me out of my comfort zone, like forcing me to workout or try new cuisine, but I know you have my best interest at heart even though you think I’m a kinda basic.

One of my favorite things you always say is, “The best gift our parents have given us is each other.” The gift of a sister is most precious. Friends and boyfriends may come and go, but you’re stuck with me for life. It’s nice to have someone to rant to, help me through troubles, be ridiculous with, and always rely on. Now that I’m in college and we don’t see each other as often, I always treasure every phone call we have or the time we spend together. I love our little dates, cuddles, and holding your hand in public even though it annoys you. Thank you for letting me visit you when you were in college and I was a little high schooler. Thank you for letting me try out different braids in your hair since mine isn't long enough anymore. Thank you for assuring me that my shorter hair looks good. Most importantly, thank you for being more than just a sister, but my best friend.

Love you forever,

Your little sissy