Sister Soul Sister

This is Claire.

Clairence. 

Twin. 

Clairey. 

Soul Sister. 

(and the words of Johnboy) "Hey, Punk." 

Claire dear.

Sister Claire Sanford.

I have this friend. 

I met her nearly 4 years ago, 

at the end of my Sophomore year in High School.

And I Love her 

more than I know how to say.

She has been there for me through 

the most ridiculous and dramatic of times,

helped me dance and smile through life,

taught me how to be open and giving,

and showed me how to always 

give my whole self 

to everything that I do.

We have laughed.
Been artsy.
Sang together.
Been silly.
Rocked on.


Been PATRIOTIC.

Stared at each other.
And been on many
very, very long
and hilarious
carpools
and bus-rides.

She helped introduce me to the hobby
that quickly became the love of my life.

We have calmed each other's nerves.

We have gone to the temple together.

We have smeared chocolate goop 

all over our faces 

and girl-talked 

while it encrusted our skin.

I was jealous
of her cheekbones.
And her nose.

She never missed a chance
to tell me she thinks I am
Beautiful.

She was there when I graduated High School...

and I was there when she did.

Today is one of the most nerve-racking and exciting days of Claire's life.
This Wednesday,
she will leave to spread the Gospel of Christ for 18 months in Reno, Nevada.

And she had many wise and wonderful things to say about it.

"This is why I am serving a mission. This Gospel is most desirable, and I want to share it with others so they can partake with me."

"I know I will be guided to those in search of truth, a foundation, and so much more."

"When we are blind in darkness, we can pray and receive His light."

"This all feels so unreal."

"I know this is where I am supposed to go.  To share this gospel with the people there, and hope they receive it.  If they don't, at least I'll know I planted a seed."

I have always admired her courage, testimony, and faith. 

My adopted sister, I will miss your antics and your Love dearly.

But I am so excited for you.

Now go change the world.