Dear sisters,

How are you? Is life treating you well? I really hope that you are doing well and life is great for you. You have been great to grow up alongside, even though it was tough sometimes. I know that we fought and argued and got angry with each other (and pretty often at that), but even so, you guys are my best friends. Thank you for being that to me. You sisters mean so much to me and I have a bit of advice for you as you start to grow up.

First of all, school is important. School is really, really important. School is extremely important –but it is not as important as your focus on God or family. Please do your best in all your classes. Please complete your homework, please ask questions when you need help, and please make time for your family and Jesus. I know it is so hard. I really do know. I struggle with this myself. Though just because it is hard doesn't mean that it is not worth it, or that you cannot do it.

The struggle is too real when it comes to balancing everything. You are probably going to want to do everything you strike an interest with but sometimes, you have to give things up. Sacrifices have to be made by everyone and it is necessary at times even when it is upsetting. In order to gain in life, we must give in life. It will be hard.

You should really take time for yourself. This is a must when you are a person who does not want to go crazy. Even if this time to yourself means waking up early to have a cup of coffee and read your bible for twenty minutes, you need to take advantage of it. I know it sounds simple and you may be asking "Tori, why do I need this?" The answer is: without you time, you will not be able to function. Tip: keep a journal during your personal time. This will help you keep track of your life. Keeping track of how you feel on some days can help you feel better on other days or show you how much you have grown.

Boys are irrelevant. Honestly, they are unimportant. Do not get me wrong, you do not have to be rude to them, as tempting as that may be. There is no need to get involved in romantic relationships until God leads you to them, but being friends with a male is not bad. Also, it is not true in any way that boys have less drama than girls: let me tell you, people say teenage girls are moody but boys can be just as bad if not worse. Don't be afraid of them, though, that won't make anything better. Be friends, make good choices.

I am here for you. I will literally always be here whenever you need me to be there. Please, please, please do not ever forget that. I love you and remember that you guys are the best friends that I've got. I love you so much. Thanks for being awesome!

With all my love and compassion,

Your big sister Tori.