Dear Fifteen-Year-Old Me,
You are so much stronger than you think you are. I know you think you’re weak because you’re struggling, but the truth is, you could have given up at any time--but you didn’t. You’re still here, and in five years, you’re still going to be here. You’re still going to be here because you’re going to push through it. You’ve already been through so much, and you’re going to go through even more. But, you’re a fighter, and you’re going to feel so much better when you can look back and say “hey, I made it.”
High school is rough. People are going to tell you that the problems you face aren’t real, but I know that they feel like life-or-death conflicts while they’re occurring. Your family isn’t always going to get it. Your friends won’t always get it, either. Your teachers will use textbook responses on you and pretend they get it. But, you know what? You don’t need anyone else to get it. If you’re hurting, your pain is real. Your emotions are valid, and you don’t need anyone else to tell you otherwise--especially if they’re going to use the excuse that your problems aren’t real because you’re young. High school is jam-packed with drama, and it does get better once you graduate. You’re going to learn from your mistakes, and the lessons you learn will protect you in your future
Even though it may be hard for people to understand what you’re going through, know that you’re not alone. I know it may feel like you are, but some people are just better at hiding their pain than others. Everyone’s carrying some pain on their shoulders. You just don’t always see it. I also want you to know that it’s okay to need other people. It doesn’t mean you’re incapable of handling your problems on your own. In fact, by reaching out to others when you’re in need, you are handling your issues. People need other people to be there for them sometimes. One day, you’re probably going to be that person for someone else. It’s human nature to want to be surrounded by people. Embrace it- don’t turn away the people who are trying to be there for you, and make sure you’re there when others need you.
I wish I could tell you all of the wonderful things you’re going to accomplish in your future, but I don’t want to spoil the surprise. I don’t want to spoil the feelings of triumph that’ll rush over you as you conquer life. But, you’re only going to be able to see all the wonderful things you’re capable of if you keep on fighting through life. If you ever feel like life isn’t worth it anymore, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-(800) 2273-8255. Seriously, save that number in your phone, just in case you ever need it. It’s so important that you stay on this planet--the world needs you to make it a better place.
Please remember that it gets better. Please remember the positive impact you make on the world. Please keep going.
