As Jordyn Flows

I have decided to devote my blog to my oldest Sister Sam in honor of her recent graduation from Indiana University. It is my hope that she forever maintains the special qualities which set her apart from anyone else I know in the next chapter of her life.

Although Samantha (aka Sam) is twenty-one, we always joke around about how I am the more mature sister. There is no doubt that she has a youthful soul, full of optimism and delight. For example, in Colorado while we were on spring break my sister and I were walking back from dinner late on a snowy night. She spotted a large bright object sparkling in the distance; gasp-It was a gigantic Christmas tree! She jumped for joy, ooing and aaing, as the tree's lights continued to change colors. By the way, wer'e Jewish.

This little anecdote represents just how the smallest and simplest thing can make my sister light up with happiness. Holden Caulfield would be impressed by my sister's innocence and ability to be herself in any given scenario. Samantha Joy Shaffer is no phony.

Fortunately, Sam continues to see the good in people, which I believe is very endearing. It is likely for most adolescents to grow cynical from their experiences and more skeptical of their surroundings, but my sister is the exception. Sam has faith in everyone. Though this sometimes makes her naive in certain situations, I cannot help but smile about her warm and content demeanor. Filled with laughter and silliness, Sam truly lives her life to the fullest (that is if she is not sleeping for the majority of the day). Sure we are opposites, but this does not prevent me from recognizing and attempting to adopt her positive qualities.

Sam breaks the tension in any room she enters due in part to the fact that she says what ever happens to be on her mind. She calls it how it appears to her, and never compromises who she is in order to gain acceptance from other people. For this reason I dedicate my blog to my older sister since she has taught me one of the most important lessons of all: to remain true to myself.

Sam, in order to prove your belief that  I am not overtly sensitive or sentimental person (except of course when it comes to our dearest little sister Ryann) false, I would like to tell you that I love you so much. You inspire me to look at each day as an opportunity. You are truly an optimist and I hope that you will forever continue to see the light in people. From my observations I know that you thirst for life has a domino effect. Suddenly all the people around you are bright, cheery and shine-just like the Christmas tree. 

[This is not the exact tree but it is still a cute picture:]