I’d be lying if I said that we had that picture-perfect sister relationship together all the time. We haven’t always had the best experiences together, but that’s what a majority of siblings are like growing up. Who else would we bother every day? Whose clothes would we secretly steal? Who else would we want to get in trouble just so we stay out of the clear and aren’t grounded from the TV for a couple days?

Growing up, I always thought that I was going to have big shoes to fill. And, well, let me tell you… I dreaded it. I always questioned whether or not I would be good enough to follow whatever path you laid out for me. I mean, could you blame me? Going in to high school I was known as your sister, and only your sister. I didn’t even have a chance to make a name for myself yet. Don’t get me wrong, though you did set a great example for me to follow, I realize now that you and I are on two completely different paths.

Having a big sister is truly one of life’s greatest gifts. You were like the guinea pig for a lot of things, so when it came time for me, our parents were more lenient. THANK GOODNESS! But, really, there is much more to having an older sister than just that. I honestly probably couldn’t have made it this far without you. Life is way more fun with one. I will always have a permanent best friend, so you are kind of stuck with me forever. I know that I can always call you to vent about anything and everything and you’ll be there in a heartbeat. I know that I will always have something new to wear if I can’t find anything in my closet because yours is always open to me (if I beg, and beg, and beg). But, most importantly, I have a person who will always love me, even if they are tired of me.

Not too long ago, you graduated from one of the best universities in the country, and I’m so proud of you for that. I was like a proud parent when I saw you walking across stage. I’ve seen you work so hard for years, and to finally watch it all pay-off was truly a heart-warming experience. It makes me sad to know that we won’t have our weekly Tuesday/Thursday lunch/study dates after we both finish class, but my heart is at ease knowing that we will still be in the same city. I may not say it enough because the annoying little sister in me doesn’t want to give you the satisfaction, but I truly do look up to you. I look at you and I see such a strong, independent woman. You may not know exactly where your life is going, but you’ve got a pretty good idea, and I truly admire you for that.

Sometimes we still argue, but, if we are being really honest here, we will still probably be arguing whenever we are in our 80s. But, I wouldn’t want to have it any other way. By having you, I have more than just an older sister. I have a life-long friend, a therapist, a fashion advisor, and so much more. So, thank you for showing me the ropes and picking me up whenever I fall (after you laugh at me at first, of course).

Much love, your not-so-annoying little sis