Dear reader,

You're gorgeous and handsome.

Don't stop reading yet, give me a chance to explain. I know I can't see you through the screen, but whether you think so or not, you have so many radiant features about you. Your eyes, smile, nose, feet, stomach, hair -- none of these things matter. But your laugh, the light in your eyes, and the brain in your head, those things mean a lot. Think about Netflix, we don't care about the red, or the font, but the content -- that is key.

I understand that America has become a hub for beauty. We all want what we don't have, and those who already have it try harder. Plastic surgery, face implants, and other cosmetic surgeries are all the rage. I am not hating on those things, to each their own. However, to the girl who doesn't feel pretty on the outside stop focusing so much on what others immediately see and focus on what others gain from you.

When people leave a conversation with you do they feel fulfilled, happy, excited, or charmed? What do you feel? Be confident in who you are under your skin, and that makes loving your body a lot easier.

Your body is your house. You can build your walls or tear them down, and it's always up to you. Connect with people that make you the best version of yourself and they will help you create safe barriers from others who try and hurt you. Love yourself enough to know which friends are worth your time, and which ones would leave you when you need them most. Those people are the ones who are hurting too, but you need to handle your pain before you can take on theirs.

Love yourself.

If you are a larger person and you want to lose some weight, go for it. Grab someone who you trust and will hold you accountable and start eating clean. You can do it. Believe in yourself and love yourself enough to know what you want. If you love your curves, then rock them. That is your body and if you're proud of it, show it.

Wake up in the morning and tell yourself that you love yourself. I know this one sounds crazy, but I heard a speaker tell me this not too long ago and I've been trying it since and honestly, I feel better when I get up in the morning. A big ole "I love you" and then a tall glass of water can really get you going.

Be honest with yourself. Show your head and heart how much you love them by being honest with yourself. Lying and making up excuses for your brain and heart are far more damaging than someone else doing it to you. Take a step back out of your situation and list all the emotions you are feeling. Then explain to yourself why you are feeling all of them. It might sound like a lot of work, but you'll save yourself from pain later.

Love yourself internally, externally, and in between.

Sincerely,

Writer