Growing up, my sister and I had a typical sisterly relationship. I was the oldest, so, of course, my life revolved around tormenting her and driving her nuts. She did the same thing to me in return. There were times where we would bicker and argue, or the occasional bad fights, where we walked away angry and saying we hated each other. I never meant it when I said it, and I know she didn't either. I used to beg my mom to get rid of her and ask for a new sister. My mom always responded the same way every time: "She's your sister. One day, you're going to realize she's the best friend you'll ever have." I thought she was so wrong, but now that my sister and I are older, I realize my mom was so right.
Obviously, my sister has been there since day one. There's nothing about me that she doesn't know. She's seen me in all forms, from the worst to the best. She's been by my side through everything that I've ever experienced, including obstacles and tough challenges that I wouldn't have been able to get through without her. We butt heads on a lot of things, but she respects my opinions as I respect hers. We are so much alike that there have been times where we accidentally wore the same outfit without planning it. Whenever I'm feeling down, she knows just what to do to make me smile. Whenever I'm being stupid, she speaks up and tells me to get my shit together. No matter what mistakes I make, she always forgives me and accepts me for everything that I am. Even though I'm older than her, she has taught me so much. She has taught me to stay true to myself and be who I want to be, no matter what other people have to say about it. She motivates me to be the best version of myself possible and has always been there cheering me on during my successes. She honestly brings out the best in me, and I don't know if she will ever truly understand how much I appreciate her.
Having her as my little sister is the biggest blessing I've ever received. DNA makes us sisters, but sisters don't have to be best friends or even actually like each other. Some sisters hate each other, don't know each other, or don't have good relationships with one another. Luckily enough for me, my sister IS my best friend and my favorite person in this whole world. I couldn't picture my life without her. Now that she's off to college and spreading her wings, this is my wish for her: I hope that she remembers how special she is and that no matter what, wherever she is, I'm supporting her and I'll always be there for her just like she has for me. From the little girl with her cute little curly pigtails, to the beautiful young woman she is today, I've watched her grow and I couldn't be more proud of her. She has the kindest heart, the funniest laugh, the goofiest sense of humor, and the strongest soul I have ever seen. Friends come and go, but she is forever my sister and best friend, and not anyone or anything can ever change that. As our lives continue, we will always have each other. We will be there to see each other graduate, get married, have kids, and all the other things life brings. There's no other person I would want to go through it all with me.
My dearest sister, thank you for being you and being the most awesome sister to me even when I didn't deserve it. You're simply the best.
