To those who look up to me,
When I think of all of you, I can't help but beam with pride. Why? Well, out of all the people in this world, you have chosen me to be someone that you look up to. And that's pretty crazy. There are many older people you could have chosen- teammates, teachers, even older siblings. But you picked me, and I'm extremely honored.
I could have met you as your coach, your babysitter, your family friend. No matter what circumstances brought us together, I know that they were meant to be. You all are so very special to me, and I hope I have shown that to you. All of you are wonderful and unique in your own ways, and through my guidance, I hope that I have been able to help you see the person that you are and the person that you have the potential to be.
Let me make something very clear- I know I'm not perfect. I have a fair amount of flaws, and some of them have been shown to you over the years. I fall short sometimes, I know I do. And I'm so very sorry for that. I'm sorry that I haven't always been the best role model. However, even when I do fall short, when I'm at my weakest, I want you to know one very important thing:
I am always on your side, and all I want is the very, very best for you. Always.
As much as I have made an impact on you, you have probably made an even bigger impact on me. You have shown me that I am capable of being a guiding force, a mentor. You have loved and supported me when I haven't loved and supported myself. You have given me a reason to become a better person. Whenever I lack motivation or strength, the idea that I have you watching me with your bright eyes, trying to learn from me and my mistakes-- that is what pushes me harder. That is what makes me the person I am. I am definitely not immune to imperfections-- there are days, weeks, months where I'm not at my very best. That discourages me because even when I'm having a bad day, I want to be the best person and role model I can be for you. I am the oldest child, one of the older cousins. I never had someone above me to look up to, and I think that is what makes my job all the more special. Being a good example for you is the best job in the world, and probably far more rewarding than any of the jobs I will ever have in the future.
But, as you know, I'm going back to school in a few weeks, and I won't be able to physically be there for you. It's extremely important to me to give you some advice before I go, so please bear with me.
Choose Kindness.
No matter what the circumstances are that surround your day, it is important to always choose kindness. There are mean people in this world- I can't deny that. No one can. But how you let yourself react to unkind words and ignorance-- that's what defines your character. If someone is being unkind to you or making you feel any less of yourself, walk away. Turn the other cheek. Fighting doesn't fix anything. Don't let someone else's hateful words shape who you are. In every situation, choose kindness. People will remember you and credit you for the content of your character. Kindness, even in the hardest of situations, is an indication of an extremely strong moral compass. Words can leave more bruises than wounds. Don't leave bruises on people. Even if they are treating you with hatred and disrespect, walk away. Be kind.
Love Yourself.
Even when it's hard. I know how hard it is to love yourself. I have struggled with it for years. But the first step of loving yourself is knowing your worth. And I hope you all do. You are all such remarkable people, who have changed my life for the better, whether it be by your hugs, your words, or anything in between. You are all worth so much to the people that love you, and I hope you never forget it. You can move mountains-- love yourself and be confident in how much you mean not only to me, but to the world.
Work Hard.
Even when you are tired, work hard. School is starting, and the amount of extracurricular activities you all have never ceases to amaze me. I know sometimes you are exhausted and just want to nap the day away. Push that thought to the back of your heads, and move forward. I see so much potential in you, and the only way you are going to reach it to your fullest capacity is if you work hard and keep pushing on, even when it's hard.
Never Give Up.
Never give up on yourself and your dreams. Dreaming big is important- we need more dreamers in this world. Don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't get an A on the test, make the varsity team, win the match. You can do anything you set your mind to if you keep your attitude in check. But when you do achieve, Be humble. Achieve with grace and respect.
Don't settle.
If something is toxic to you, you need to eliminate it. Many say, "there is so much strength in holding on". But to me, there is just as much strength in letting go when something is no longer healthy for you. If you are sacrificing your happiness or your well-being for something or someone-- let go. You will feel so much better.
Last but not least,
Remember I am proud of you, I love you, I am here for you, and you deserve the very best.
I love you all more than you could ever know, and I thank you so much for making me a better me. I could write a million open letters, and I would still not be able to fully express the love and pride that I have for you.
Thank you for loving me when I wasn't the easiest to love, for believing in me when I didn't believe in myself, for being my fan club. I would not be half the person I am without all of you.
Keep on being who you are, dreaming big, and working hard. I will always be one of your biggest supporters and I hope you know how much of an honor it has been to act as a role model to you.
All of my love always,
The girl you look up to
