Sometimes I think about what it would be like to not have a sister and I can’t even imagine it. Ever since I was two years old and my parents told me I would be a big sister, I was honored and excited.

Being a big sister has not only taught me to be a good role model, but has made me realize a lot in my life. With having a younger sister, she has kept me grounded and made me realize I shouldn’t be in a rush to grow up. When I look back at all the things she is doing now that I did two years ago, it makes me appreciate what I have in the moment, and reminds me I can’t ever get that back again.

Luckily, I get to live through her prom days and high school football games by hearing all her stories, and it takes me back to such great memories. Most importantly, I truly have a best friend that will always be there for me no matter what. Whether it’s a random shopping trip or acting like complete idiots, I’ve never been luckier to have such an amazing sister. I have someone to play with, someone to randomly talk to whenever I need advice and, most importantly, help in choosing what selfie to post on Instagram.

We share all our clothes together (even though we fight about it often) and are always brutally honest with each other on how we look before we walk out the door to a party or hangout. We do have plenty of fights and disagree on a lot of things, but the love I have for my sister is more than anyone can ever imagine.

I thank her for those times I was upset and needed someone’s advice or needed someone to convince my parents to let me do something. I’m glad my sister is tough on me and pushes me to be the best person I can be because I know I have someone I don’t want to let down. She understands my parent’s strict rules or why they can be annoying sometimes and we share so many special memories together.

I think one thing that really is great about having a younger sister is watching her grow up and accomplish so much. A lot of times people can be very selfish and only think about themselves, but if there's one thing I’m most thankful for it’s that I have a sister to show me that it’s not just all about me all the time. I’ve learned to share, to be proud of someone else’s accomplishments, and that the spotlight can’t always be on me. She’s kept me grounded my whole life and I’m so happy that I have someone who loves me unconditionally and understands the world us teenagers live in (because my parents definitely don't).

I'm so proud and lucky to have such an incredible, loving young sister who constantly shows me to stand out and be different. Thank you for constantly making my life so much better and always reminding me of what it's like to be my own person. But always remember, I'm older.