In my short 20 years here on this earth, I have experienced quite a bit. I want to share with you both what I have learned in hopes that you won't make the same mistakes I did and that you can get the most out of this life God has blessed you with. You are young, and you have a lot ahead of you.

Wake up every morning and thank God for another day. Another day to live your life out glorifying God, showing others His love, and making a difference no matter how large or small. Sit next to the lonely girl in the cafeteria. Smile at the shy boy who passes you in the hallway everyday. Be kind. Be courageous. Be respectful to your teachers and learn all that you can. Then thank God at the end of that day for another day on this earth and all you accomplished. Thank Him when your days are good. Thank Him when your days are bad, because there is always a reason to be thankful.

Tell your family and your friends you love them. You never know when you'll see them last. Hug Mom and Dad. Give them a kiss. Tell them how much they mean to you, because they never hear it enough. Offer to help them. Do the small things. They will appreciate it more than you will know. Make the memories no matter how small. One day, they will be all you have. Be obedient. Be respectful. They want the best for you. Keep that in mind, no matter how much you don't like it. They have been there. They want to see you succeed. They love you. Love them back.

Be confident. Be strong. Don't be afraid to be proud of yourself, but remember who created you. Give all the glory to Him.

You are beautiful. You are kind. You are talented. It is okay to cry. That is not weakness. It shows your passion. Give everything your all. Don't hold anything back. Have no regrets. Please, have no regrets.

Find a boy who loves you, who truly loves you. A boy who will be or is a man. A boy who will seek to make you a better person. A boy who cares for you more than himself. A boy who will do anything to see you smile. A boy who tells you, "You are beautiful," and truly means it. A boy who respects your standards and doesn't guilt you or force to compromise them. A boy who is equally yoked. A boy who will bring you closer to God. Don't waste your time on one who makes you feel inferior, degrades you, abuses you. That boy will never be a man. A real man puts you first. He will treat you like the princess you are.

Be thankful. Be selfless. Be kind to all. Be the bigger person. Love unconditionally. Be smart. Listen to your gut. Make good choices. I am praying for you continually. I love you both so much. Never forget that.