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To My Little Sister as She Enters the 'Adult World'

The time has now arrived in your life where this thing we call "adulting" is about to completely take over in every way. 

It's crazy to think about because it seems like just yesterday, I was at your sweet sixteen trying to get you to come out of your shell and dance. 

I believe that you're more than ready. I think that you've been ready for a while now. But, there are still some things I need to tell you.

As you take this next step in life, just keep in mind that as much as you want there to be, not everyone has good in them. Some people are just shitty. 

Also remember that sometimes, you need to put yourself and your own happiness first, because you deserve it.

Moving on… men are jackasses. You need to stop giving chances to the ones that don't even deserve a second glance from you. You're amazing, intelligent, you have so much to offer. 

These immature boys that you've let into your life previously don't even deserve to know you exist. You shouldn't let people treat you like pond water when you know damn well that you're Fiji water.

But, when you decide to let them in anyway, and they hurt you, just know I'm here. I'll be standing outside your front door with tissues, ice cream, and the biggest bottle of Hypnotic I can find, and I'll help you put your pieces back together. 

Also, make sure you experience life. Things get hectic and work becomes more of your house than the one you're supposed to be living in. Just remember to make time for you.

Plan a trip for a weekend with your friends. Go somewhere new. See things you've never seen. Yes, I know you're afraid to travel. But doing things you fear brings experience and excitement. I'd even go with you to make you more comfortable.

You need to see more than just the four walls of the few places you've always known. Give that to yourself. You deserve it.

Oh, and, just so you know, you'll get used to being home alone. You won't feel like you're living in a horror movie after the first few weeks. Everytime someone knocks on your door, you won't think it's Jason coming to end you. That'll go away.

Cooking isn't as hard as it seems…and I mean more than just mac and cheese. Recipes from the Internet work wonders. 

But, when you almost burn the house down trying to cook something simple, which I've seen you do, I'll be knocking on your door with a Tupperware container of whatever I've made that night, and a movie to make it better.

Last, but most important thing, I am so proud of you. You have broken out of your shell and truly found your own identity over the past few years. 

You no longer hide from who you are, you show it proudly, without hesitation. That's all I've ever wanted for you; to disregard what everyone else thinks and just be proud to be you. I think you've finally found that.

You've accomplished more than I could ever dream of. When I look at you, I don't see my "little sister". I see a gorgeous, brave woman that is one of my best friends.

I couldn't be more proud of the person you've become. You've got this, go own it. I love you.

– Your Big Sister