If I could write a letter to past me . . .

Dear younger me,

There are some things I wish you could know now. You won't learn them until later. Some much later. Maybe knowing them sooner would have helped. Maybe not. But if I could talk to you right now here's what I'd say.

Relax. I know that's hard for you, but it will stand you in good stead if you learn about it now. You will never be caught up, and it will only get worse after you're out of school, not better like you think right now.

Stop worrying about what everyone else is thinking about you. It sounds harsh, but it's none of your business. More importantly, it doesn't matter a hill of beans. The only beings whose opinions matter are God and you. I know that sounds unbelievable, inaccurate, and unChristian, but it's true. God is going to love you NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO. So stop beating yourself up all the time, and do the things that bring you joy.

Trust yourself. You won't read these words until 2011 -- You is smart. You is kind. You is important. True words. Things you know already, but are afraid to admit. You are not haughty or self-important -- You is smart. You is kind. You is important. 

Don't be so judgmental of others. You've learned that things are black or white. Right or wrong. Good or bad. It's not that simple. You don't know other people's experiences. Give them grace, and give it to yourself while you're at it.

Be more open. Get out of your box. Have a little faith in people in general. Question. It's good for you. Open your eyes and test the water. Making a few mistakes will help you, not hurt you. Mistakes are part of the learning process. Without mistakes, you'll stagnate. Risk.

You are going to have a good life. Not a picture perfect, Norman Rockwell life, but a real life. Embrace it. Share it. Lean on people. And be there for others to lean on as well. That's why we're here. Don't take your friends for granted. You've got some of the best people in the world with you right now, and some of them will be with you forever. Be grateful.

With love for who you are now and who you are becoming,
Me

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