An Open Letter For Your 18th Birthday | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

An Open Letter For Your 18th Birthday

Happy Birthday, Make A Wish!

2309
An Open Letter For Your 18th Birthday
Instagram

You're 18 now. Are you ready?

Ready for what?

The world. You've just been given a key to unlock a new door. This key comes with more than just responsibility. It comes with exposure to aspects of life you never knew existed, and brings so much more into your life, that words can't even explain it.

This new key, this new endeavor is going to bring you so much uncertainty about life. You're going to want the answer to everything. So I would advise you to not try to put a label on everything in your life because it will become so complicated. Learn to live in the moment because you're young and, trust me, it won't last forever.

There are going to be nights when you can't sleep because your day was so exciting that you can still feel heart racing. Then the following night, you won't be able to sleep because you're disappointed about life. So I would advise you not to get too attached to a lot of people because, you're still so young and vulnerable. I don't want you to get hurt by everyone who tells you three-worded lies. You deserve more.

There are going to be days when you feel like you're on top of the world. You're going to be ahead of all your classes, your family is going to be proud of you, you'll have money in your bank account, you'll get your first car. Then one day, you might get a grade you aren't proud of, you might get laid off due to budget cuts, you might get a ticket, your cat might die.

Wow, my cat? Really? You know I love my cat.

It's just an example. I just want to advise you to not be discouraged by what life throws at you. Never give up. Mourn your cat, cherish her, and remember she wouldn't ever want to see you depressed, maybe a year later you can get another cat. Not as a replacement, something new, but always keep the memory alive and learn from your experience.

You can apply this advice to any aspect of you life. Never replace something; if it breaks, it is broken, learn and grow and get something new.

Happy birthday.

Thank you.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

17129
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7341
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5391
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4701
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments