Dear Brothers,
When I think back on the last 20 years of my life, I cannot help but express how grateful I am for being born into a family where I gained you both as older brothers. Yes, we haven’t always gotten along. There are times when you both seriously get on my last nerve. But, I can honestly say that you two have shaped me as a person and made me who I am today. So thank you!
As I’ve grown up, I have realized how unique and special our bond is. I’ve also realized how much you two have taught me. You’ve taught me that I won’t win at everything in life and that I won’t always be right. Our many bike races/board games/arguments helped with that. I need to be able to accept defeat (as gracefully as possible) and move on. You’ve taught me that you can get far with determination and that you should approach life head-on. With your help, I’ve discovered that I have to work for the life I want and that I should never settle for less. You’ve taught me to take pride in and to appreciate my family. At the end of the day, all we have is each other. You’ve taught me to value traditions. You’ve taught me to invest in people and to see their true selves. Everyone has something to teach you, and it’s our job to listen and to learn. You’ve taught me that worrying gets you nowhere, and some things are unimportant in the grand scheme of life. The list could go on and on. The main point is that the things I value most in life, I learned from watching you guys.
You two were (and still are) my main role models. You’ve taken your lives into your own hands, and you both have passionately pursued (and achieved) your goals. It makes me want that for myself, and it shows me how attainable it is. I’ve lived in your shadow for years, and at times, I’ve felt pressure to live up to you guys. I’ve always been referred to as your “little sister.” Being in college has taught me a lot about life and myself, and it has also cemented some of the lessons I’ve learned from you both. It has made me independent and surer of myself. Some of that credit belongs to you two as well. I finally learned how to be my own person apart from your “little sister,” yet I’ve also realized how much of my personality comes from growing up with you both. You’ve helped me to not take myself too seriously and to keep a good sense of humor throughout life. I never have to apologize for being who I am. And part of who I am is your little sister.
Y’all are two of my biggest protectors and supporters. Not every girl can say they have two older brothers looking out for them to make sure no one hurts her. It’s extremely comforting to know that I’m not in this alone. I can always rely on you both. When I’m walking across campus late at night, I know I can call either of you to talk until I make it back to my dorm safely. You listen when I ramble and you offer advice when you can. Bless the man who I bring home, because he has to get through you two. If you don’t scare him away and you actually approve of him, I know that he is a good one. Your example has set the bar high; for I know from you both what respectful, great men look like. I have high standards thanks to you, but I wouldn’t have it any other way because you are two of the best men I know.
You are two of my very best friends. It’s unusual and uncommon to have such a great relationship with your brothers. I cannot express how grateful I am for you both in my life. When I look back at my childhood, y’all were there for it all, and I can’t imagine growing up without you by my side. I genuinely enjoy spending time with you both. Y’all make me a better person. I know that no matter how old I get, I can always count on you both. I’m forever your little sister, and I couldn’t be luckier. Thank you for being there for me, loving me, and being the best big brothers a girl could have. There aren’t two better guys for the job!
Love,
Your Little Sister