the end of an era

When Rachel was moving out of apartment 20, Monica cried “it’s the end of an era!” Something was changing and it was gigantic.

My older sister, Olivia, graduated from college this year, has moved into a new apartment, and spent the summer in Chicago. It is, the end of an era, so to speak.

You see, Olivia is my best friend. Yes there are other people in my life who are “best friends.” Lovely people I met this year who changed my life for the better, high school friends who got me through, but no one has stayed by my side like her. She’s been there for me through thick and thin, making me laugh and smile all the way. She was my rock when I was terrified of going to 1st grade every day, she never failed to include me whenever she brought friends over, and when it was time for me to go off to college myself, I followed in her footsteps to Northwestern (“Whaaaat wasn’t that weird going to the same school as your sister?!” Nope, no, nyet, non, not at all. In fact, it’s what made my freshman year amazing).

And like Rachel was in denial for most of episode 6, season 6 of FRIENDS, I am too. I still can’t believe that my big sis is done with college, she has joined the working force, and she didn’t even come home for the summer. But if I think too much about it, I’ll probably start crying.

While I may be suffering from this serious case of denial, I am so excited for her. You see, I have no doubt that she will be incredibly successful in her life. And I know this because I know my sister. Olivia is one of the most wonderful people that you will meet in your entire life.

She is warm and kind, the best friend one could ask for. She is smart and funny, always able to make me smile (even when I really don’t feel like it). She is hardworking, determined, bright, I could go on forever.

Throughout my entire life, she has always been my biggest role model. Especially in my young, impressionable years (aka middle school). I was hiding my awkward self behind a wall of insecurity, Olivia, on the other hand, was completely and utterly herself. No matter what. She has a confidence about her and you just know that she knows who she is and will not change that for anyone. I have always admired that special quality she has.

So, Olivia, no matter what you do or where you go (even if it means leaving me), know that I love you and I am always on your side.