Dear Eight Year Old Me,

I wanted to take some time to write to you. You feel invisible and ignored and have often been pushed to the side, and I am sorry for that. There are some things I want to tell you that might help you get through the long days. Maybe it will help give you enough strength to push through. I know this sounds crazy, but just hear me out.

The first thing I want you to know if that you are beautiful. Don't fall into the trap of picking your body apart so young. Love yourself, your whole self. You don't need to look like all of your friends. It's okay to be different. It would be boring if everyone looked the same.

You are intelligent. I know you often feel beat down, like you're not smart enough. Yes, you struggle with certain subjects, but that does not make you stupid. Don't listen to the words of others when you don't make straight A's. As long as you are trying your best, that's all that matters. You are not stupid.

It gets better. It is a long, dark road, but you will make it. There are many obstacles that you are going to have to face, but don't give up. There will be many days ahead that leave you wanting to throw in the towel but just hold on. You can do this. There is hope.

You are incredibly brave and strong. You will hear that throughout the years, and you will not believe it. By the time you are on the other side, you will begin to recognize what great strength it did take to get through everything you went through. That is why I know that you can do this.

Know that it is okay to cry. When you're alone at night, or talking with a friend as you get older, cry. Do not beat yourself up for tears that need to be shed. Those tears are part of the healing process. They do not show weakness. They show just how strong you are as you pick yourself up and continue on your way. It's OK to cry.

Finally, know that you are going to make it. Believe me, it is a long road. It's difficult, but you are strong enough. I know this only because I am sitting at the other end. There are going to be obstacles, many of which I wish I could remove but I cannot. Know that those scars that you gain during your journey will ultimately help you in the end. Don't cover them in shame. Allow them to heal. You are gong to use those scars to help others who are struggling in the future. Their stories might even be similar to yours.

Always remember that somebody loves you, even when it seems that you are all alone. You have two wonderful people that will continue to cheer you on as they have been all along. You are loved.

Continue to fight. You ARE worth fighting for.

Love,

Your Young Adult Self