To The Over-Protective Brother I'd Never Give Up

Dear Brother,

Thank you.

Thank you for being my best friend, my fashion police, my shoulder to cry on, the one who has never given up on me. Thank you for defending me no matter what. Thank you for giving me a kick when I needed it. Thank you for protecting me like our dad would have because, without you, I'd be no one. Thank you for always giving me the best advice and being my best friend.

Thank you for staying up late nights with me and talking with me about everything. Thank you for the words of wisdom that a normal 13/14-year-old probably would never have. Thank you for the life lessons you taught me. Thank you for protecting me from myself. Thank you for being my saving grace.

I know our relationship isn't always rainbows and butterflies. But you mean more to me than most people. You are my world and my joy in life. You, I know, will never give up on me and that, my little brother, means the most to me. Thank you for all the fun you've taught me. Thank you for the innocence you contain. You are my life.

I know you've had a big role on your shoulders when Dad died and, when you were old enough, you were "the man of the house". Thank you for never letting that go to your head. Thank you for always protecting me when I didn't think I needed it. Thank you for loving me because I am your sister. I am grateful for our relationship. I am grateful that you are alive. I am grateful you are my brother.

Now, little brother, you are my world and my number one. You've protected me from my demons, you've held me when I cried, you've protected me when I didn't think I needed it. You have saved me. I never had to ask you, why would I ask that of a 13 year old who can barely understand what color the sky is. But, I couldn't thank you enough to do that for me.

Thank you for being there and loving me. Thank you for showing me first hand that not all guys are the same. You are growing up into such an incredible young man and I couldn't be prouder. Thank you for protecting me throughout these years and for you continuing to protect me. I will never give you up because you never did me.

Always and Forever,

Your Sister