To a younger, more starry-eyed version of myself,

I hope this letter reaches you in the midst of happiness. I hope you’re doing something fun and that you’re enjoying yourself and making the most of your time. Believe me, the time begins to fly by faster and faster as the years go by. Right now, you’re probably doing your homework, or stressing over your latest crush. Looking back on you now, I can’t help but smile. You were so innocent back then, so full of young life and hope for the world and the future. Being able to look back on you from where I am now, there are some things that I think you need to know.

First of all, throughout your years growing up, you’re going to experience a lot of pain, heartbreak, and hardship. The best advice I can give you is to keep going. Never let yourself give in to the weight that you are facing. Even when it feels like you are crushed beneath it, use all of your strength to fight it. When it seems like the world is closing in on you at all sides, you have to shove back. The most important thing is to push back, darling, always push back.

I also wanted to tell you not to give up on your dreams. No dream is too big if you believe in it, and with a faith like that, you can move mountains. Too often I think we let this messy world get in the way of our dearest dreams and we let ourselves believe that things are impossible. My hope for you is that you never let go of the belief that you can accomplish anything. You can be an unstoppable, unbreakable, driving force that creates change and makes things happen. Promise me that you will never forget that.

Most importantly, I want you to know that you are more than good enough. There are going to be so many times in your life when you doubt yourself and your abilities. My heart breaks knowing that you will sometimes see yourself as less than you truly are because of the negativity of what surrounds you. Always remember that you are enough. You are capable and fully able to execute each and every dream or wish that you may have. Ignore those who tear you down and do whatever it takes to build yourself back up again. You are so very valuable my dear, and someday you will come to a place in your life where you’ll understand who you are. Then, and only then, will you finally realize your true worth.

Although this may sound crazy to you now, one day you will grow up, without even noticing. One day, you will be an adult making your own decisions, fighting your own battles, and cultivating yourself one step at a time. But until that day comes, enjoy being young. Enjoy the simple bliss of being a child. Don’t wish away your days longing for something more. Your day will come my dear, so until then, just enjoy this beautiful life and let yourself be a kid. I guarantee one day you’ll wake up and wish you could go back.