Anyone who has a little sister has the privilege of knowing what a blessing, and sometimes a pain they can be. Our little sisters are younger versions of us that we pick on and make fun of, but who always hold a special place in our hearts. We do our best to be good role models for them, even though sometimes we make mistakes. I know I do. Even though growing up you may resent each other over time, you learn to love and cherish each other.

Dear Little Sister,

I know growing up, I wished you were a puppy but I can honestly say that a little sister was one of the best gifts mom has ever given me. I want to make sure you never forget that.

I’m writing this to you because I fear that you will make the same mistakes that I have. I’m writing this because I want to see you become the amazing woman I know you can be. I’m writing this because in this big crazy world, I want you to know the things that no one ever told me.

Always remember, you are beautiful. You are smart. You are worth it. You are worth of more than any boy could ever give you. You are worth more than any of the girls who have to pick on you to feel big. You make this world a better place. I want you to keep those things in mind as you embark on every new day.

I want you to know...

I’m sorry.

I’m sorry for any time I’ve ever made you feel less than you are. I’m sorry for all the times I wasn’t necessarily an ideal role model. I’m sorry for the cheerleading games I’ve missed, and I’m also sorry for making fun of you for wanting to be a cheerleader. I am sorry for the times I tattled on you or got you in trouble. I’m sorry for the times I was the "mean girl" that I previously mentioned. I hope you know that I truly wish I could take those moments back. I’m even sorry for wishing you were a puppy through the first year of your life.

It’s okay to cry over boys, but don’t let them break you.

I know you’re not quite there yet, and dating is a scary idea. Quite honestly, it freaks me out that you’re old enough to date. What I want you to know, is that while I hope you never sit in bed and cry at night over a lowlife boy who isn’t worth your time, it is okay. I’ve been through my fair share of heartbreak and I know first hand that it’s not easy. However, you’re young and if you’ve followed my love life at all, which I know you have, boys come and go. Don’t let one boy ruin your idea of love. Always remain hopeful.

Be confident.

Confidence is something I’ve seen you struggle with. You are beautiful inside and out. I’ve never been around someone with such a kind spirit, in this cruel world we live in. Someone as great as you is hard to find. Own it, with a little bit of confidence, you can rule the world.I know growing up is hard, but you don’t need verification from anyone that you’re pretty or worth it.

Learn from me.

At 21, I feel like I’ve been through it all. I’m happy to have gone through it if it means you don’t have to. If you have any questions or need any advice, remember I am always here. My purpose is to teach you, to show you how to live your life, and yes that includes mistakes, which you know I've made plenty of. I’ve been through all of the things you’re going through and that you will go through, and I only hope you know that you can come to me with anything and I’ll drop everything to talk to you. It’s my job to make sure that you avoid all of the failures that I didn't.

Mom just wants the best for you.

I know first hand that mom can be tough to deal with at times, but I promise you she just wants what’s best for you. To be honest, she’s probably harder on you than she ever was on me because she probably doesn’t want you to make the same mistakes I did. Try your best to keep your temper, don’t argue with her because she’s always right. Tell her you love her every chance you get, eat dinner with her as much as possible because I promise you when you move out you’re going to miss her.

People change.

As you grow up, you may grow apart from some friends. Your high school friends may become people you see only when you come home on breaks, maybe never again. It’s okay, it happens. People grow up and people change. Make sure not to resent them, just move on. Remember your good times and smile when you think of them.

Don’t worry about being popular.

I know you know, popularity is not everything. You’re not really the “party girl” I was in high school. If there’s on thing I could change, it would be constantly worrying about my “status” in high school. It may seem as if going to every party or having plans every Saturday night is the most important aspect of high school, but it gets played out after a while. Being with the same people at the same places all the time is tiring and, trust me, you will get tired of it. Spending a night in with mom may turn out to be a lot more fun than it sounds.

Also, don't worry about the mean girls. I can assure you since I've graduated high school not one of those girls has crossed my mind. Do yourself a favor, and start being unfazed by it now. It will save you a lot of heartache.

You always have a friend in me.

Growing up, my source of advice and support was our big brother, who usually just told me to suck it up and get over it, or pulled my hair, or pushed me down. Luckily for you, now that we’re older you have me to come to. Whether it’s for advice, or just to hangout, I’ll always be there. Even though sometimes I’ll be the annoying older sister who will always be the first to tell you things you don’t want to hear, I’m also available to be the cool older sister. The one who will buy you awesome gifts and answer your late night calls when you need to be picked up and don’t want mom to know.

Always remember, little sis, I love you with my whole heart. Learn from my mistakes. Continue to fight for the good things in this world. Don't grow up too quickly, and continue to be true to yourself.

Love always,

Your Big Sister