Dear little sister,

I hope you know you are my best friend and that I will always love you. I also hope you know that I want nothing more but for you to be happy. You are the light to our family and the best little sister anyone could ask for. Even though I would like to save you from the craziness life will throw your way I know I can't, but I do want you to know that I can and will help you along the way.

Be prepared to watch people walk in and out of your life. As you get older you will discover the harsh reality that friends, boys, and acquaintances will come and go, but remember that is perfectly normal. Sadly the girl you played on the playground with in elementary school might not stick around, but you will find the group of girls that you can be yourself around and that will love you for being you. Remember some people come into your life for a short period of time to teach you a lesson whether that lesson is about love or life in general be sure to take that lesson and learn from it. Yes, sadly there might be a guy that breaks your heart and walks out of your life with no reason, but that's okay he will teach you a valuable lesson about love and you will be okay. Always remember to cherish the moments you have with the people that are in your life.

Please keep in mind that even if everyone else is doing something that doesn't mean you have to. The hardest part about growing up is finding yourself and little sister I want you to become the best you that you can be. So promise me that you will do what makes you happy even if the crowd is walking a different way. Don't be afraid to stand out and be different because the best thing that you can do for yourself is to be confident with the decisions you make.

Growing up is never easy and understand that you will fight with mom and dad. Yes, I know they will frustrate you when they ask you hundreds of questions every time you leave the house and make you put the dishes in the dishwasher, but understand that they want nothing but the best for you. It will be hard especially when they don't agree with some of the things in your life, but listen to them because they know what they are talking about trust me.

Enjoy being young. I know being an adult may seem fun, but believe me when I tell you it is a true struggle. Promise me that you will enjoy your youth and that you will take your time enjoying each moment. During my teen years I made the mistake of always worrying about silly things that shouldn't have been that big of a deal. So, please remember that someone always has it worse so be grateful for what you do have and don't stress about the little things. Stay young as long as you can because it is the only time it is acceptable to watch cartoons in your underwear like I know you love to do.

By the way little sister you are good enough. You are going to go through life and second guess yourself, but there is no need to because you can do whatever you set your mind to. Never stop telling yourself that you are great and that you can do anything. Work hard for everything you want and don't stop even when someone tells you that you can't because I will be right behind you cheering you on.

Little sister I wish I could write you a book explaining to you each and every step to take, but there is just so much for you to understand. I will tell you that life will get difficult. You will cry over a boy. You will fight with your best friend and think it is the end of the world. You will make mistakes, and you will not always have the right answers, but you will be okay. I don't want to scare you or make you think negatively about the future I simply want you to know that life is what you make it, so make your life as amazing as you are. I promise to be here for you every step of the way because you are my best friend, my heart, and most importantly my sister. Take my advice and stay young, stay humble, and stay true.