Dear ________,

Breathe in, breathe out.

Although it may seem like the world is caving in and all the weight has been put on your shoulders, just know you are strong enough to make it through. Know that you have made it through so many obstacles to get you to this point and looking back those obstacles have only made you a stronger person. Those obstacles have changed your way of thinking, they have made you smarter, more responsible, and have each left their mark on your character.

Just like a deep wound, an obstacle can mentally be woven into your thoughts. As the cut begins to bleed, so do your emotions. The sense of fear and negative thoughts begin to cloud our perspective on reality. As we are taught to clean out our injuries, we release and try to clear our thoughts of all negativity. As you are able to create positive thoughts and strive to progress, the opening begins to scab. When we have finally overcome an obstacle, just as any injury, new skin grows over where the wound once was. Although it might not be ideal, just like the many struggles in our lives, the cut will eventually leave a scar. The scar, however, shouldn’t be something that you look at and fret. That scar is a frequent reminder of how strong you are and how far you have come. The skin grows back stronger, just like you will once you are able to get through whatever you are facing.

I know it is easier said than done, believe me I understand. But as you lay down for the night remember a few things. Without the proper care wounds have the ability to be infected. Surround yourself with people who are positive influences and are willing to help you with whatever you need. Just know that there are people out there who care so deeply about you and would drop anything to talk if you needed a set of ears. There are people out there who have seen you grow over the years into such a strong individual with the capability to conquer anything in your way. There are people out there that look up to you, admiring your every movement. So as you lay, tallying your scars, also tally your accomplishments. You have overcome more than you thought. You are stronger than you think. You are strong enough to get through this. You will get through this.

Sincerely,

Someone proud of her scars