To my darling girl, because I write much more easily than I speak:

Hey, love. I've been meaning to tell you some things. And I need you to know that they are true. Without a doubt.

First of all, that I look up to you more than anyone I know. It may seem a little backward, but how could I not? You are beautiful. Beautiful. Just ridiculously crazy unimaginably lovely. Your entire being exudes beauty because of the goodness that accompanies it.

You know how to be kind, which makes you mature beyond your age. The people around you notice: You're never cruel, you don't say hateful things, you're just so kind. The simple kind, the say-hi-to-someone-who-doesn't-think-you-know-their-name kind of kind. The most important kind of kind.

I catch myself gasping with admiration at your bravery. Watching you sing in front of so many people, an age group that has the potential to say some of the most mean-hearted things, I couldn't help but wish that I had even an ounce of that courage--that courage that seems like it should be much too large for your little body to hold. And then you cut your hair. And you knew that people might say things... Ali, all your hair's gone!... But it was so pretty and long!... But you didn't care in the slightest, and I was so proud of you. You're one of those people who doesn't give a {jam} ;) about what other people think, which is truly amazing.

You fill every day with vibrancy. You are such a little creator, you know. Those prettiest songs you compose for the guitar, those loveliest words you write down--it's all perfect. It's all something new, beautiful, and good that you've contributed to the world.

You know where you're going. You know what you want. And I don't want you to be like me when I was your age--just waiting. I want you to go get it. I want you to do whatever it is you want. You can. You can. Your heart is so strong, so wise, and it won't lead you astray.

I want you to know that boys, they come and go, and well, sometimes maybe one will like your cousin more, but that doesn't matter. That was one boy, but he's not the boy. Not for you. Someday, one will come along who will love you just as much as I love you--so much that his heart would rip in two if he ever lost you--so much that he can't find the words to describe it because every time he tries, he only ends up crying.

You deserve everything, darling. Everything and more. And I'm sorry that I can be a brat sometimes, but just so you know, there is no other sister that I would rather have than you. You help me grow and be kinder and realize when I am being selfish. No one else could do that as well as you.


With love, always with love,

Your adoring sister


{You were right, by the way, last night. That is your thing. And I'm not trying to take it from you or anything like that. I could never become as good as you, anyway. I guess I just wish I were as cool and wonderfully talented as you are. I was trying to be like you.}