Dear Me,

Wow. I can't believe it. In one week, you will be starting on a new adventure. Meeting new people, taking classes you actually like, living on your own, it sounds like a dream to you. But as excited as you are to move on to your next chapter, I know there is a small part of you that's just a tiny bit nervous. So before you go off on this new journey, I wanted to write this letter with some things I wanted you to remember throughout the next four years.

First thing, I know you have come a very long way from the 5th grader that wanted to do nothing but fit in, but you're about to meet a lot of different people from a lot of different places. They will have a variety of values. Change is good, but don't change who you are so someone else will like you. Better put, don't hide your authentic self because in the last 18 years you've discovered that that is when you are happiest, as cliche as it sounds.

Take care of your mental health. Your senior year had the downturns it did because you kept trying to shut the problem you have out, trying to place it with other issues. Don't think you can always deal with things on your own. This applies to many things. Jesus Christ himself couldn't do it on his own. So why could you?

Also remember, you can let go and still stay connected to your roots. After all, you are not going that far away. I would say, don't try to hang on like you did when you first went to high school. It's okay to visit. It's okay to keep in touch with the people who helped you so much. I guess.. just don't prevent yourself from being present in where you currently are. As much as the past is a part of you, the future also is too. But that being said, don't let your present make you disregard the past. Continue those relationships. It can turn into something great. But know that there will come a time where people drift apart but they will always be a part of you in one way or another. That is just the nature of life.

Remember there is no growth in a comfort zone. No comfort in a growth zone. Lean into discomfort. Say yes to new opportunities. You have control of your own life now. Make it what YOU want it to be. This is your time.

That's the end of this cliche letter. Enjoy these next four years, learn about yourself, learn from your mistakes. Make the best of this time. As many people say, it could be the best time of your life. Dare to be... you. Best of luck.

Sincerely,

You