Dear little brother,

You will never understand how being your big sister has made me who I am today and every day. When you came into the world, a sense of entitlement overwhelmed me to be your role model and example; however, it seems like you were the role model.

You taught me that bad habits can die if I try hard enough. You showed me that two wrong don’t cancel each other out no matter how much I attempt to justify it. I think twice about the way I treat others ever since you asked me why people are so mean and i had no explanation. I laugh more often because you annoy me and remind me to just have fun with life. On the days I just want to try a little less: I push myself harder because that’s what you would tell me to do.

As a big sister, it often seems like I’m supposed to protect you, but you protect me. You are never hesitant to glare at any and all boys who even dare to look at me. You remind me to never let a boy use me or you will be mad at me. You taught me that boys can never define my worth. You always make me laugh when you remind me that I am underage so I can’t drink, and my favorite thing is when you tell people about my food allergies and end with “or my sister will die!”

You are my biggest cheerleader (except for the fact that you don’t wear the skirt). The way you look up to me is what keeps me from being a complete screw-up. The desire to be someone you are proud of is what pushes me to be a better person. On the days that I question myself, I think about all the times you have told me how loved, beautiful, and wonderful I am. It is because I have a little brother that I always have a best friend.