I wrote this letter as a bit of hope for girls who may see little pieces of themselves in who I was 365 days ago, and to make sure they know high school will not define you unless you allow it to. The past 365 days of my life have brought me so much change, and thereafter, joy and hope and love. To anyone who feels any of the things I was feeling one year ago: Life will hand you change. You should grab it and take off running.
To Myself 365 Days Ago:
You're just about to graduate high school, and you couldn't be more excited. You have so much to look forward to, you have no idea, girlfriend.
There are a few things I want you to know before you get down and out about yourself. In just a few months, your entire life is going to change. You will finally be able to take advantage of the changes you have wanted for so long, and you will also encounter changes that your mind could have never anticipated. Regardless of what changes you experience, each and every one of them will be for the best.
First, you don't need to worry about him. I know you thought your high school relationship was perfect, and you can't see past your life with him at this very moment, but you will. It won't happen suddenly, though. You will miss him and your times together, but gradually, you will grow and learn to love yourself. You will appreciate yourself in a way that he never could, and you will be strong.
Feeling lonely? There's no need. In just a few months, you'll never find yourself alone. You'll find yourself in the loving hands of your new floor mates and sorority sisters. Unlike a few friendships you've had throughout your high school years, you will meet some of the most genuine women you have ever known and be blown away each and every day by their kindness. Their strength and compassion will inspire you to be the best you can be.
You're in a scary place right now, stuck between indecisive thoughts about if you chose the right school and your impatience to get away from home. And I won't lie; the first few weeks of school might not feel any different. But I promise, you will find a new place to call home. You will find someone who appreciates that weird hipster band that no one has heard of except for you. You will find a friend who understands your sense of humor and isn't offended by your sarcastic remarks. You will find it silly that you ever wasted your time on a toxic friendship or relationship, because you will learn that you deserve so much more.
Do not be afraid of changing. You will change your major at least twice during your first semester, and you will have a nervous breakdown because you have no clue what you want to do with your life. Be patient and take each day as it comes. You will learn what you are passionate about, and you will find where you belong within your university's community. You will find the drive and compassion and courage to be yourself: authentic and unique.
Embrace every opportunity you are given, and you will be successful. You do not have to change the person you are to have friends or to be successful or to be happy. The world needs and wants you for exactly what you are.
Lastly, when your freshman year of college comes to an end you will find that the amount of time you spent worrying about the perfect prom, broken relationships or seeking approval from others, was never worth it. However, you will find that you are worth it, and that is more than enough.
