Dear Present-Self,

It’s me. Well, you, just fifty years later. Weird, right?

Anyhow, how’s the rest of junior year going? I’m sure you’re ecstatic considering you just found out about your internship (take advantage of it because this summer will be one of the most exhilarating yet).

Right now you probably think it is cliché to say, “Everything happens for a reason.” However, in all honesty, those five words have shifted my life around. Think about it, when you didn’t receive those four other internships you interviewed for, you were devastated (I may be seventy-years-old, but I still remember). And guess what? You landed a once in a lifetime internship with Live Nation in its aftermath. Sure, at that moment you felt rejected and unqualified. But from what I’ve lived, that interview process and rejection was practice for the rest of your future.

Throughout your life there will be failure, and there will be success. It’s your motivation and drive that will get you through it. Believe me. There were times I’d separate myself and lock myself in my bedroom so I wouldn’t have to face my rejection and failures. I’d cry to myself and think I was never good enough for anyone. Whether it was relationships, jobs, friendships, etc., there were times I felt empty inside. However, it all happened for a reason.

If it weren’t for my emotional spirals, I would have never felt the desire to travel. I would have stuck in my own bubble, and lack the motivation to make something out of myself. I would’ve never met your future husband, (yes, you are married) who is standing by my side as I write this letter to you. Nonetheless, our kids would not be the people they are today.

You see, whatever decision you make at this moment, and the mistakes you will make along the way, shape you into the person you will be 10, 20, to even 50 years from now. And that’s okay. Even at times you may feel like the world is on your shoulders, your life will fall into place. You will get that diploma, and you will receive a well-paid job. You will travel, and you will meet your prince along the way. Your best friends will be your bridesmaids, and your toxic friendships will leave your side. Just like you grew up in a tight-knit family, family will always comes first. And all in all, you’re happy. I’m happy. And all the up-and-down rollercoaster rides we face will be worth it. Life has only just begun, and I cannot wait for you to experience it for yourself.

Love,

Your Future-Self