10 year-old me,

You were made to achieve excellence, reach goals and set an example for your peers. You were made to study for every test, rehearse for every performance, and sometimes not follow the crowd. I know you are in your young and delicate years, but with time, you will grow into a strong and independent woman. Through every heartache, letdown, failure, reward, encouragement, and success, you will grow.

You will learn that some things are meant to be, and others are not. You will learn to take the disappointments and turn them into blessings. You my friend, will learn to love yourself and live the life you have always imagined. I would like to share a few words of wisdom with you, in regards to the years to come.

Always use your brain.

If you are ever in a situation, in which you will be, to where you feel you do not belong, remove yourself. You are going to save yourself from pain and consequences. Every decision has a result, and always make the one that fits you. It may not always be the popular decision, but it will be the smartest decision.

Mom has always been right.

I know mom can be strenuous and strict sometimes, but she is protecting you. There will come a time, especially in high school, when you want to hang out with the seniors. Mom will advise you to be careful and always do what you think is right. You will come to find out, these people are older and sometimes participate in the things you do not need to be apart of. You will cut ties and remove yourself from the group. Yes, this leaves you without people to talk to for a few months. However, be patient. Within the following year, your true friend group will assemble in a lunchroom cafeteria.

Don’t try to be one with the crowd.

Most everyone you meet in school will not follow you into your future. Make friends, but do not hold those people to the standard that their friendship is permanent. Don’t stress if those girls will not let you sit with them. Look for someone in that cafeteria who is sitting by alone and join them. You will come to find out, that the people who you approached and included in your life are the friends you have today, and appreciate your friendship.

Value your education.

I know you will spend hours upon hours making note cards, drenching your textbooks in highlighters, and annotating everything in your novels, while your friends are out enjoying their last few days of break. Sweetheart, it will be worth it. You will know study skills and experience how hard work pays off. You will have the GPA and grades to be accepted into your dream college. You will be able to take classes and work towards your future career as a Social Worker. I promise, studying will pay off.

Speak.

I know you are an introvert and will struggle with being shy. However, learn to use your voice. Ask your professors when you have a question. Go to a tutor when you do not understand a math problem. Tell your advisor what classes you do, and do not, wish to take. I have learned that by using my voice, I have a resource that has helped me throughout my life. Don’t be shy!

Love yourself.

There is so much potential in you. You are talented, and have unique gifts that set you apart from others. People will tell you in life that you are not special. Ignore them. You were placed on this earth for a purpose. You will be someone’s role model, someone’s friend and someone’s hope. You must believe in yourself.

I know you are stressed, and scared of what the future holds. Do not be. Right now, enjoy the little moments and time where you can make a difference and enjoy childhood.

With love,

Future me