Dear 5-Year-Old Me,

To start off this letter, I want you to know that your future is going to hold a lot of ups and downs, but you end up on top. You face all your challenges and conquer them. You grow from a small and quiet little girl into a confident young woman who holds her head up high. Just know that your future is bright, no matter how scary it may seem right now.

Being only in kindergarten, you probably have a pretty easy life. However, be ready to face what is coming. School will get harder, your brother will keep annoying you, and your friends will come and go. The world around you is going to change every day, but you’ll be changing with it. Try as you might to stop it, but change is inevitable, so do your best to accept it.

Growing up and getting to do new things is exciting, and you will get to do everything you ever wanted, but don’t grow up too fast. Take it easy, and take your time with it. Once you grow up, you can’t go back. You’ll be in middle school with more work than you ever imagined and will be wishing you were back in pre-school playing on those yellow monkey bars or making forts with your brother. Don’t take your youth for granted. Cherish every moment of it.

As you mature, never neglect Mom and Dad. They know it might be embarrassing for you to kiss them goodbye, but they can’t help it. They love you so much, and only want the best for you. You are the light of their lives, so just by giving them that quick hug as you walk out the door or by staying home to watch a cheesy movie with them when you could be out with your friends means the world to them. Take the time to show them how much you love them.

As you grow, you are going to struggle, and attempt to keep all of your feelings to yourself. Don’t. There is always someone on your side. Reach out for help. Don’t be afraid to talk to others. No one will judge you, and no one will berate you for having challenges. Everyone deals with their own battles, just like you will one day. No matter how discouraged you get, remember that you come out the other side shining.

The truth is, growing up is much easier said than done. Obstacles will arise. Your friends will hurt you. School will sometimes hurt your brain. But don’t let any of it distract you from the road you will pave to success. Work hard. Explore when you can. Discover new things. Go out with your friends. Laugh until your stomach aches and tears are running down your face. Take naps if needed. Never settle. Have fun. Most importantly, stay true to yourself and be proud of who you are. Good things are coming, I promise.

Love,

17-Year-Old Me