A Letter To My Former 18 Year Old Self | The Odyssey Online
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Health and Wellness

A Letter To My Former 18 Year Old Self

You're going to...understand how it gets better.

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A Letter To My Former 18 Year Old Self
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Hey there 18 year old self,

I know life is very difficult for you right now. You're in the middle of entering the adult world, the real world. I'm here to reassure you that your life has a plan for you already even if you don't believe that right this second. I'm here to tell you that this is what's going to happen to you very soon.

You're going to...feel like you don't belong. You know those "friends" you have that always make fun of you because you're not as experienced as they are when it comes to sex? Give it one year, you'll realize someone is going to play a very important role in your life very soon. They won't stay for long, but you will learn more than you ever had. All of those jokes and games especially "Never Have I Ever" won't even matter anymore.

You're going to... experience heartbreak. You're going to cry, but soon you're going to understand why this person came in and out of your life so quickly. They were only searching for one thing, and that one thing wasn't what you wanted to provide them as a way to get exactly what they wanted. This is called "self-worth" and you will soon be proud of the choices you made.

You're going to... be lonely. There's going to be a rough couple of months where you feel like you have absolutely no friends. I'm here to tell you that this is actually a wonderful thing. This is a time where you will learn to love yourself, your family, and God. You will pray to Him every chance you get and ask Him for happiness. I'm here to tell you that happiness is coming very, very soon.

You're going to... find out your health is at risk, but it isn't life-threatening. You will have a few bumps in your path. This is normal, so no need to be upset over it. A few temporary medications will make you feel better than ever before, and you'll be right back up on your feet before you even know it!

You're going to... feel scared. You will question every decision you make and every opportunity that throws itself at you. Don't fear it. Accept it. Remember that your life has that plan for you and fear should never stand in the way of an opportunity. You have a huge one coming your way so be prepared!

You're going to... make amazing new friends. During college you are going to find some of the most inspiring and influential people you've ever met so far. They are all driven to become successful, like you. Together you will all become one and be there for each other every second of the day. You will provide each other with support, comfort and love. These new friends will be nothing compared to the "friends" you have now.

You're going to... see your family more than you ever had. I know you work very hard, and you work the hours that you'd rather be spending home with your family every night. It's okay to run in the bathroom at work and cry in the stall because you miss them. Be patient, because another amazing opportunity is coming for you and you cannot let the fear of leaving your current one stand in the way of this one!

So, I know you're very uncomfortable with your life right now, but hear me out and understand all of the positive will soon out weigh the negative. I would love to sit here and list every great thing that will soon make it's way to you, but it's your destiny to find that out for yourself. Me? You'll be the person I am in a few years, and you'll thank our old self in the bright years to come.


Love, your 20 year old self.



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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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