You start college in less than two months. It’s a new chapter, a clean slate, a new you...but I really think you should try to stay yourself. In fact, do just that, don't change too much. Stay true to who you are and what you believe in. Try not to chase after the things you want because you know how that ends up. Have patience, and instead, let God determine your future. You've come a long way and you know how blessed you are. Never take your blessings for granted, never settle, always push, always go for more. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, that’s how you're going to make friends, remember to always be yourself and don't apologize for who you are. You’ll do great, I mean look at you, you're already writing when school hasn't even started!
College will expose you to so many new things, so many new people. You’ll meet people who are from the East Coast...yeah, like the people with cool New Jersey accents...or maybe you'll even meet people from Texas...and they'll introduce you to some cool country music. Remember, you're not complete, there is still so much you don't know about yourself! There will be people who will help you grow and learn a lot about yourself. You say you don't like seafood now, but maybe you’ll meet friends who will teach you how to eat at sushi places and not just order the teriyaki chicken. You're not a fan of bike riding now...but just maybe you'll meet people who will give you the motivation to start riding when you all go to the beach. All this to say, don't be picky about who you meet and who you become friends with because you never know what they have to offer.
Smile when you don't want to (I know it can be hard, but just try it out), compliment people, be grateful for what you have and most importantly, work hard. You know what hard work does for people, you've seen it. If you have to stay up a little later because you want to make sure you get that A, do it. Always try your best, and don't procrastinate (Again, I know it’s hard...but let’s just try it out). Remember the reason you're going to college - to learn - to figure out what you want to do for the rest of your life. Be patient, I know you're interested in many things, but let’s try to find that one thing that you truly love. Find what your heart hungers for, if it’s scary, that’s okay! It only means that it’s the best thing for you.
Don't get comfortable with life, always seek things that will help you grow and become the best possible version of yourself. I know how determined you are, that’s good, hold on to that and never let go. Strive to be the best, but stay humble. Remember what humility has blessed you with. Have the courage to follow your heart, don't let the noise of others opinion get to you, it will only undermine your true desires. Ignore any negativity, don't be afraid to walk away from toxic things or people. Always choose happiness and love over anything that isn't healthy for you. Always cultivate a grateful heart. Appreciate your family and friends that are in your life...but most importantly, appreciate yourself. Love yourself and who you are. Be bold and courageous! Reach out to people and always try to be the light in someones life. You're far from perfect, you mess up quite often, and you say things you probably shouldn't...but you're worth it.
Have fun, be happy, be hardworking, loving, caring, daring, kind, smart, brave, and patient. Stay focused, set your goals high, and don't stop until you get there.
You got this, I know you do.
