My younger brother is easily the most precious little kid I have ever seen. I said it when I was six and he was two and I will say it now: he is adorable.
Somehow within a matter of what seemed like moments you went from being a chunky awkward (still cute) pre-teen to a super tall, handsome teenager. How did you do it? Now that the whole world is aware of how stinking cute you are, its time I tell you the secrets of high school, dating, and all of the weirdness that happens before you leave for college:
1. Don't worry about girls.
Be nice to them, be respectful, but don't let them control your life. No one cares if you had tons of girlfriends in high school or none at all. Just be nice.
2. Worry about your mom (and sisters).
Girlfriends will come and go but mom, Aly, & I will always be here to tell you how cute you are and beat up any girl who mistreats you. Also the fact you still end every call with, "Love you Maddy" even when you're with your friends is awesome, don't ever stop.
3. Hug dad every chance you get even if its in front of your friends.
Forget the whole "men have to be tough and mean" thing and hug dad. He likes hugs and he's the greatest man you'll ever know.
4. Focus on your grades, but don't let them define you.
You are not your grades. No one cares if you took AP Chemistry or not. Get good grades, challenge yourself, but don't let it take over your life.
5. Focus on your identity in Christ, and let that define you.
You are a light. Keep being that way. There is nothing more important than having a steady relationship with Christ. Build a foundation that you can carry into college & the rest of your life.
6. Don't be afraid to stand up for what you believe in.
Just because everyone else does something doesn't mean its right. Stand up for yourself, stick to your morals, and don't let anyone look down on you.
7. Be nice to everyone.
You don't want to leave high school as "that football guy who treated everyone like crap." Trust me.
8. Seriously, respect authority.
There is a serious problem in your generation that just seriously lacks all respect for authority. Police officers, teachers, substitutes, anyone at all — they all deserve respect even if you don't think they are right.
9. Don't sneak out of the house.
Again, add this to the list of things that are not worth it. I personally never tried this, but I wish I would've stayed home more and just hung out with the family. Plus mom would be so mad.
10. Don't get caught up in the wrong crowd.
Do. Not.
11. Enjoy sports, play as many as you can.
This one is easy for you, but don't let sports take over everything. You are not Steele Petty, football star (I mean you kinda are) but most important you are Steele Petty, Child of the King.
12. Learn how to cook.
This will come in handy in college.
13. Avoid drama.
Put it on the list, not worth it.
14. Don't be afraid of emotions.
Don't be afraid to cry and tell dad you're nervous about college. Or be upset and tell mom that the girl you like is avoiding you. Or call up your older sister and just tell her you love her. Keep your passion for the orphans of Zambia, don't ever let that stop. (Also it freaks me out how much we look alike here.)
15. Keep being you!
You are a rock star in all regards. You are hilarious, you are sensitive, you are protective. Don't forget how incredibly loved and cherished you are!
