I didn't choose to be related to you. It was not my decision to grow up beside you. I didn't have any say in any of it, but I thank God every day that this is how my life turned out.

Sure, we fought a fair amount growing up. When you spend that much time with anybody, you're bound to get sick of each other from time to time and argue. It doesn't change how much I value you, and I hope you never lose sight of that.

Having a sister in general is such a special occurrence, so for that alone I am grateful. But having the relationship that I have with you is such a privilege. We've always been so close; you've basically been my built-in best friend from the day I was born. You've seen me at my very best and my very worst, and you've never judged me for any of it, even when you easily could have. If ever I need advice or to vent about anything, you've always been my go-to girl. I know you're always on my side and will hear me out on anything, regardless of the topic. I'm not sure you know just how much that means to me.

As you know, it can be really hard for me to let my guard down around people and allow my authentic self to shine through. I know that with you, though, I never have to worry about feeling silly or judged for being myself. Again, I'm not sure you understand how important and valuable this has always been to me. You accept for who I am, exactly as I am. That is absolutely one of my favorite traits of yours.

Now that we're older and don't live together full time anymore, I think our bond has grown even stronger. One of my favorites parts about visiting home is getting to see you and catch up. We both live pretty busy lives now, so we don't get to talk every day. Honestly, though, I think that makes it a little more special when we do see each other and fill each other in on how our lives are going. We don't miss a beat in resuming our friendship once we're back together.

I want to thank you for the relationship that we have. We were born into the same family, but at the end of the day that doesn't necessarily mean anything when it comes to how close we actually are. My entire life, I've never felt alone in the world because I know I have you and that I always will. You've always listened to me when I need you, kept my secrets, and helped me through the toughest parts of my life. Many of my favorite memories and life experiences have been with you. I can truly say that you understand me in the deepest sense of the word. I didn't choose to be related to you, but I did choose you to be my best friend, and for that, I will forever be grateful.