From one sister to another...

I won't tell you not to do it because you really can't control how you feel.

BUT--everyone here has made some good points. 21 and 17 are at completely opposite stages in life. Granted, there are only 4 years in age difference, but it's a really big difference when it comes to maturity.

That being said, let me give you an example: [and I can't believe I'm saying this, but it has to be said]

Timmy and I have known each other since I was 3 and he was about 1. Our mothers have been friends for 20+ years. He and I grew up together, we attended each others' parties, graduations, you name it. I used to cheer him on at his Pop Warner, HS, and now college football games [if he can stop getting injured--I'd like to do that some time this season]. He graduated from the neighboring boys' school down the road in 2000. I graduated in 1997, but he has a late 1981 birthday so that only makes us 2 years and a few months apart.

I always saw him as a little bro until this summer. Though our families had always been close, I never got a chance to REALLY get to know him till this summer. We spent the whole night talking until the sun came up. It was crazy.

Since then things have been different. I grew more attached to him even though I know I shouldn't. Then the maturity thing kicked in--I'm on my way out of college...he's just getting in. I'm really concerned with my career and all he cares about is his football. I'd like to include him when my friends and I go out, but it's not possible...until he turns 21 this October anyway.

We find ourselves constantly bickering about the stupidest things and sometimes I regret ever pursuing something more than friendship. I know he'll always be there as a good friend, but sometimes I feel like we've taken such a big risk...what if he isn't going to be there?

Just something to think about in your situation. PM me if you want to talk about it more. That's what sisters are for!