As an older sibling, I have realized that my little sister will go through the same things I once did. She will experience things just as I have. She will be faced with problems and conflicts, but also achieve many things. However, I care too much to not share my stories with her. So to my best friend, here is some advice for you.
1. Be yourself.
I know you may hear this phrase a lot, but it is true. Always be yourself. Do not let other people change who you are, and do not let what other people think stop you from what you want to do. If you are just confident with yourself and know who you really are as a person, you will be so much better off. Sometimes, there will be moments where you feel like you have to act a certain way to blend in with the crowd, but I am here to tell you that you will have a much better time if you stay yourself. The right people will come to you.
2. Keep your own values close.
There are some people who will try to convince you of things that you may not necessarily agree with. Just because you do not agree with them does not mean you have to start to believe them. Know who you are as a person, have your own opinions, but also know your worth and stand up for yourself. You have your values and those will guide you to make many decisions. Do not let someone else change your opinion or try to move you in another direction. With your values, you will go in the right direction.
3. Do not be discouraged.
You are still young and you should enjoy your time now! Do not be discouraged by thinking you are almost already grown, because these last few years are yours to still enjoy. You have so many experiences ahead of you, but it never hurts to be a kid at heart. Learn to love the simple things, go on adventures and explore because you only get to be a kid once. Do not be discouraged when people tell you that you're grown because who are they to say you can’t still embrace your childhood? Do not grow up too fast. Growing up is not what you think it is. There are times when many of us wish we were still kids.
4. Always know you have me.
Whether you have a bad day or not, just know that I will always be here for you. We are sisters by chance and friends by choice. Just because I am far away, does not mean I don't want to know how you’re doing or how your day was at school. I’ll always be here if you need a laugh or if you need someone there to help you. I have so much more advice to give, but some things you will learn on your own. Just remember whenever you fall, I’ll always be there to catch you.
With love,
Your Big Sister
