Two Peas In a Pod

Dear Anna,

We have gone through a lot the past year, even though we struggled, we were able to make it through. Now, I wanted to write this in hopes that you can see how appreciative I am of you. Growing up we did not always get along, we always fought and hated each other. Nonetheless, as time passed, we slowly started getting close, and now we are inseparable. I may not be totally sure how we became this close, however, I do know that it made us gain trust in each other.

Remember when I first came to you for personal advice? I was like 10 years old. It honestly feels like it happened yesterday, it was the middle of January, and I had broken one of my longest childhood friendships. Even though it might have been something dumb to cry about you understood me and did not judge my actions. You comforted me and listened to what I had to say, you told me it would be ok and that everything would get better. That day I feel like you were sincerely concerned for me, from that day on I felt our bond grow and so did our trust.

For forever it was always a dream to become a veterinarian, I was so convinced that I would pursue a medical career. Until now even our family thinks that it will be my future profession. Yet, not until a couple of years ago, did you see something in me that I truly enjoyed and felt passionate about, that I never noticed. That was dancing. You motivated and helped me look into dancing. You were very supportive and nice about the situation. You showed me that even though it does not make as much as a vet, I should always do something that makes me happy. Not just that but you also inspired me to join activities at school. For example, I wanted to join JROTC because of how fun you made it sound. You helped me find myself when I was lost and helped me try some new things that I never thought I would join.

As I am barely in high school, every day I look up to you, you are my biggest influence and role model. When I make a mistake, instead of scolding me, you understand why I did what I did and you always help me become a better version of myself. You are probably one of the bravest and strongest people that I know, you never give up, and always look at the positive highlights. Even when there are times when people do not act the nicest, you never let it put you down or hold you down. You know how to pick yourself up and ignore others’ comments. Just like you, I know that you want me to be strong and successful, you want me to be happy and satisfied with every outcome. You always try to make me feel better about myself, either by making me laugh or distracting me from the situation. You taught me that life is not just about seriousness but also about having fun and doing what I love the most.

Growing up we did not always get what we wanted, we could not always afford the toys or clothes that we desired. We grew up being thoughtful of the money we had, along with everything else that we were given. It was tough even going to school knowing that we did not have the trendiest shoes, clothes, or school supplies. As we get older it almost does not feel like a problem anymore, we have grown to learn more fond of it, and we can now accept it. It was hard for the longest time, however, we learned to struggle together instead of having to face it alone.

Anna, I hope you read it this far. I hope you got to see and notice how important you are to me. You have truly shaped and impacted me in so many ways. I would not change you for the world. You should never change who you are to please others, even if it means letting some people down. You should always change for yourself and yourself only. I always want you to do things that make you feel happy, just know that you are perfect just the way you are. Thanks for being here for me and for always being there even in the toughest times.

Sincerely,

Your Sister

Iyari