Dear 5 year old me,
You have such a roller coaster coming for you, so I hope you're ready. Hold on tight because you're in for one hell of a ride. I don't want you to be scared though, you're going to create so many amazing memories. I want you to know that you’re going to grow up to be such a wonderful person who is full of love, compassion and determination. So when you're crying in your bed at 3 a.m. thinking that you're not good enough for this world, remember that your life has a purpose. I want you to know that you should be excited for your future because you're going to do big things.
Eventually, you’ll hear the saying, “Don’t grow up, it’s a trap." I want you to know that growing up is going to turn you into such a strong independent person who is determined to achieve her dreams. With that being said, I want you to remember that being serious all the time is boring. It's OK to laugh and show your sense of humor. You’ll soon have responsibilities, bills and rent to pay. You'll be in college, where you'll see a whole other side of life that you didn't think was possible. College is an amazing time in your life and I really don't want you to miss out on it. You get to meet so many people from all around the world. You’ll soon learn about the real world, and that might make you a little upset.
When you hear the media talking about popular representations of girls, I want you to ignore everything they are saying. I want you to love yourself and be confident with who you are. I want you to always walk around with a smile on your face and your chin held high. I don’t want you to give in the newest trends just because "everyone else is doing it." I want you to be smart with the choices that you make, because the real world has consequences and one wrong action can determine your future.
I know you’re going to be smart and I know you’re going to try your hardest in high school because you don’t want to stay in that town forever. It gets old, it gets boring and it gets toxic. There is a whole world waiting for your travels. See the world. Take risks. Have fun. Enjoy life. I want you to see what the world has to offer. There are so many different places you have yet to discover. The world is a place full of amazing opportunities, take advantage of them. I can’t wait to see you grow up into an amazing human being. Never change who you are, and have fun while you still can.
Love,
20-year-old me
