To my little sister,

I know that being the only one at home now that I'm away for college is difficult. I know that it's frustrating for you to have to do all of the chores by yourself now. I know that sometimes it's probably hard to deal with mom and dad alone.

But also know that if anyone is capable of making it work, it's you.

I am so incredibly proud of the person you are becoming. It makes me so happy to see you being your own person and not caring what other people think about you. You figured out much earlier than I ever did that what other people think doesn't matter, and that has always been one of my favorite things about you.

I know that sometimes you get worried because you don't know what you want to do when you get older or even where you want to college. Don't stress. You still have so much time to decide, and the fact that you're already thinking about it so early tells me that you have nothing at all to worry about.

I want you to know that it fills my heart with pride to see you joining clubs and taking on service and leadership roles just like I did when I was in high school. I've always tried to set a good example for you, and seeing you already doing all of these amazing things with your life lets me know that I succeeded in that on some level.

I love the level-headedness and quiet leadership that you bring to every single thing that you do. I love that you don't let the fact that you're quiet stop you from standing up for not only yourself but also others when necessary. I love that you own every single part of your personality, no matter what anyone else thinks. You always speak your mind and you don't ever let anyone walk all over you, and that's important.

You've already accomplished more than I had at your age, and you still have a couple of years left to do more in high school before you even get to college. Keep working hard. Keep speaking your mind. Keep fighting to become the very best version of yourself. Don't let anything or anyone stop you, especially not some stupid boy. (Although knowing you, the boy thing won't be a problem. Lord help any boy that tries to play with your feelings.)

Even though I may not always say it or even act like it, I do miss you when I'm away at college. Every time I see something that reminds me of you, I get a little sad that I have to wait until I come home to tell you about it in person. I love you, little sis. I can't wait to see how you continue to grow as a person.

Sincerely,

Your Big Sister