A Letter to Rose: On Being a Sister

My beautiful niece, Rose, and handsome nephew, Will.

Dear Rose,

Look how fast you are growing up! You are already so smart and beautiful that I simply cannot imagine what God has in store for your life. Maybe you'll be a pharmacist like your Daddy, or a teacher like Uncle Jeff, or a Speech Pathologist like your Mama. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination and drive, and we have seen already just how persistent you can be when you want something. (That's a good thing, by the way!)

There is one thing though, sweet girl, that you will always be. Your life changed when Will was born and it took on new meaning, even if you haven't considered it that way quite yet. Forever and always you will be a "big sister." This is something new in our family. Your mom is a little sister, I am a little sister, Anna and Ashley are both little sisters. Even Grandma Little is a younger sister. But you, you're special! You, my dear, are a BIG SISTER.

So what does this mean, you might wonder? Well it means that you are a natural born leader, first of all. We've seen this already in the way you ask us to play with you and how you know your own mind, even at such a young age. More than likely you will grow up and be the one that others go to for advice, to lead, and to be in charge. But be careful, little one, there's a fine line between leadership and being bossy. Most of your friends might fuss at you if you get too bossy. Will might fuss at you if you get too bossy, but he will certainly look up to you and appreciate your presence in his life as he gets older. You will give him opportunities that you haven't even thought about, just by going first. In school the teachers will know you and they will accept him, because he's your brother. They will expect him to be just as smart and kind and wonderful as you are! In sports you will help him develop his skills just by playing with him in the backyard. He will be your first best friend! And you will be his. And for your whole lives you will trust each other to tell the truth when it needs to be told, to be each other's biggest fan, and to be there for one another whenever you are in need.

As an oldest child, dear Rose, your confidence will shine through and your intelligence will serve you well in this world. You have so much to look forward to, so take advantage of every opportunity that intrigues you. I know you will do well. And, as your godmother, it is my job to remind you to keep your eyes on Jesus. He will never leave you and when you pray to him he will answer your deepest needs.

So, you're almost two, little lady! We are all so proud of you and love you very much. Keep up the good work! Be a good sister and teach Will everything you know, okay?

Love,

Aunt Amy