LITTLE BROTHER GRADUATED

Last week my little brother (although not so little anymore) graduated 8th grade.  It was a nice commencement ceremony and my brother was nominated AND chosen to read a speech/remarks to his class/teachers.  That takes lots of courage to get up in front of so many people, but he did great!  Not a flaw in the speech at all!  We are 10 years apart, so I've had the joy of watching him grow up!  He is turning into a fine young man, if I may say so myself!  It makes me stop and think how fast time really does go by.  I don't know if he will really read this, and if he does, I'm not sure if he will take any of this to heart?  I know/remember what it was like to be a teenager, and your "elders" are never right!  In a way, I think he's lucky to have a big sister.  Not because I'm so awesome or anything ;)  But I know I wish I would've had an older sibling to be able to talk too.  Not necessarily to bare my soul to, but just someone closer to my age that could listen.  Someone who has "been there" and who could give a little advice.  Not that he's gonna take my advice, but any of you who know me...like it or not, I'm probably gonna give you my advice opinion anyway! 

Speech

DONE!

Jess,

First of all, I want to tell you just how proud I am of you!  It's funny, it seems like those who are closest to us, are the ones that we "skip" saying the sentimental things.  I've anticipated the day you would graduate 8th grade, because it is a milestone.  One that is going to bring you into a bigger world, or should I say bigger school.  You set your plan of goals and have so far achieved them, that is a big accomplishment!  This is a time of completion, in a way, an "end".  But it is really only the beginning.  Does this make sense?  One very small chapter of your life has come to an end.  I know it seems like such a big deal right now (and it is right now), but as you grow and learn in your life...one day you will look back and realize that there is so much more to accomplish.  Jess, I hope you always remember who you are.  If I could give you one piece of advice for you to use throughout your life, it is to stay true to yourself.  YOU are the one who will take you the furthest in life, YOU are the one who makes decisions for yourself, You are the one who will be responsible for those decisions that you make.  You will make mistakes, LOTS of them, but use them as a tool...a tool to make the right decision the next time.  It is inevitable that structures, processes and relationships will change in your day-to-day life.  It is inevitable that you will face new challenges everyday, and yes, at times your life may seem to be "shaken up", but only YOU can change that into something positive.  Your future is destined in capable hands, YOUR hands, so take this chance you are given and RUN with it.  I hope you face, tackle and embrace the impending future and make the best of it!  These 8th grade accomplishments may fade in your memories or even be forgotten?  The applause may become a distant memory and your certificates and medals may gather dust on a shelf or in a drawer?  But always remember that they have been YOUR accomplishments!  Always remember "the sky is the limit"!  Your life is a remarkable occasion - I have no doubt that you will rise to it!

Little brother, always remember that I am here for you...for the good and for the bad!  I will always be your big sister, and I will love you no matter what!

High school is a big world, embrace it, have fun and learn lots!  Prepare yourself for the future...education is the most important tool you will use in your life.

Family

BEST WISHES AND GOOD LUCK!

...Remember...I LOVE YOU!!!