Having a Sister is a Gift That Lasts a Lifetime

I sometimes catch you, my daughters, out of the corner of my eye.

There are a couple of years between you, yet you always find a way to come together and find common ground. High-pitched voices play make-believe with the Barbie playhouse. A big sister’s compassionate heart helps a toddler’s frustrated hands open up the purple jar of Play-Doh. A little body tucks into her big sister’s bed because that’s where she feels safest when the thunder is rolling outside. Two hands band together when crossing the street to the neighbor’s house.

Your bond is so sweet.

And while I know you will both grow and evolve, find your own set of friends, and develop different interests, I pray you don’t ever forget having a sister means you always have each other.

When you are fighting with your friends at school and feeling left out, I pray you don’t forget who will be there to remind you she always has your back.

When you lose that big game or miss that big chance, don’t forget who loves you no matter how many accolades fill your shelves.

When your dorm room pillow is stained in tears over the love who didn’t love you as much as you loved him, don’t forget who will always pick up your call just to listen to you cry.

When you find out your dream job will stay in your dreams and your path seems unclear, don’t forget who is always ready to cheer you on, no matter what route you find yourself walking.

When you find yourself feeling alone in that new apartment in that new city, don’t forget who can always make you feel like home.

When you wonder if you’re still in there after entering into motherhood, don’t forget who knows best who you’ve always been—and will remind you when you forget.

Please.

Don’t forget you have each other.

Because having a sister is one of the best gifts you’ve been given—and one of the greatest blessings you won’t ever stop needing.