As I returned home from my freshmen year of college, I reflected on the fact that life had monumentally changed from the childhood aspirations I dreamed up 10 years ago. The young girl I was back then imagined herself being everything from a movie star to a fairy princess to a real-life "Harry Potter" wizard. She had no idea where she would end up, especially not here: a home away from home at Ohio University. Looking back now at who I was then, I am proud to tell her it was not a simple journey, but one I wouldn't change for the world; and I want to remind her of some of the most important things I've learned since I was a little girl with a big dream.
Don’t stress over middle school and the friends you will leave behind. Trust your instincts and stick up for yourself. A real friend would never put you down, and you may have to learn this the hard way. There will be a lot of tears, anger and confusion, but you will be a better person on the other side of it, I promise. (Also, thank your mom and mind your tone because she's always right.)
Don't trust first impressions. The people you would never expect to be there for you will be by your side on the hardest days (with pizza, ice cream and a good movie, of course). Contrary, the people you thought would last forever will soon be a memory. Give everyone a fair chance. You never know the type of friend you'll gain, and what type of "friend" you'll realize you're better off without.
Leave yourself open to new challenges. You have the most beautiful spirit and courage to try anything new, from tackling volleyball and basketball to joining Girl Scouts and twirling baton. There is nothing you can't do. You may even surprise yourself, giving up your sports for a chance at varsity cheerleading, or going for the lead in the musical. Do these things. You won't regret them, and you'll be glad you listened to me.
Don't be afraid to let go. The band you'll play in for seven years and the boyfriend you'll fall head over heels for won't stay perfect. Eventually, you will need to say goodbye to both, because neither one can last forever. Sometimes good can become bad, and bad can become downright toxic. Take a deep breath and understand that if something no longer shapes you, heals you, teaches you or strengthens you, it will only hinder you. It is better to let go.
Understand not everyone's heart is as good as yours. You are a giver, and you always have been (thank your mama for that one!) The older you get, the more you will realize that putting good back into the world is not something everyone else will do alongside you. Not everyone will treat you fairly. Some will even take advantage of the kindness you offer. You can't let this break you. The world may be harsh, and you may feel like quitting. Never. Stop. Giving. It is always better to love too much than not at all.
Appreciate what you have. It won't always be there: your parents, your loved ones, your favorite pet, your high school best friend, your Friday night football games. They will all leave at one time or another. You will discover just how important your parents are when you have to call them because you have no idea how to do laundry. You will wish you had spent more time with the sweetest dog in existence before cancer took her from you. You will remember the best stories your grandpa ever told while laughing through tears as your aunt tells them at his funeral. Loss is hard, but regret is harder. Live in the moment now, put down your phone (which pretty soon you will have on you 24/7), and remember the best memories live in your mind, not on your camera. Appreciate everything you have -- it won't always be there.
