Dear Colleen,

Wow. 20 years old.

It may seem a bit weird and scary now, however it doesn’t have to be. Just because you aren’t a teenager anymore doesn’t mean you have to have it all together. It’s okay to still be figuring it all out (honestly, very few people have it really figured out, even if they claim to) and it’s okay to be afraid.

In just 20 years, you’ve already accomplished some amazing things. You inspire people every day with your dancing and your powerful words. You are making a positive change in this world, even when you feel like everything is falling down.

You are surrounded by so much love and light because you give off so much love and light! You give so much good to this world, and you deserve to know it. Never change how you are to conform to other people’s opinions, and never silence yourself to make someone else happy. You are amazing just as you are.

Don’t be afraid to rest sometimes. On the days where you are exhausted and just feel like you can’t keep going, give yourself a break. Self care isn’t selfish, and as life progresses you will need it even more. Take time to do the things you love because they’re just as important as “work.”

Stay strongly rooted in your beliefs, no matter how people may try to sway you. Sometimes, standing alone is better than standing in the wrong. Your heart knows where it needs to be, and if you listen closely it will always lead you there. Love is always the answer.

Change is okay. I know in the past few years you’ve had a lot of it, and it can definitely be intimidating, however it can also be beautiful. Don’t let the fear of the unknown stop you from trying something new or different because you may end up loving it.

Continue spreading your message of love and kindness wherever you go because people will take notice and do the same. You will never regret making someone smile or brightening up someone's life. There is no cost to being kind!

Happy birthday, and keep being the best you that you can be.

Colleen