Dear Emma James,

Stop being so afraid. I know how hard things can get, but look at where you are now. Look at how far you've come. Giving up isn't an option in this moment or the next or the rest of your life. Fear will always be right in front of you -- haunting you with memories and mistakes. You can either cower and never face up to it and stay small for the rest of your life, or embrace fear as an old friend. Think of fear just as the friend that challenges you more than others.

Never stop believing in the magic life holds. Through words, actions, people and places, the world can become something better than a fairy tale kingdom in a land far, far away. You just need to try to reach for it.

When you go all over the world, take pictures, eat exotic foods, meet people who aren't like you. Find hidden treasures that you can only hike to get to and bring people who have never seen the world. Capture the awe in someone's face when they stand at the edge and look out onto the planet they've spent their whole life on and never stop showing people the beauty of simple things.

When you meet your soulmate, never go a day without telling them you love them and shower them with affection. They should never feel as if they are unwanted and if they do, fight like hell to let them know they're loved. On the other hand, don't waste your time on someone who could never treat you like the only girl in the world. You should always feel loved, protected, valued, joyful and excited to be with that person, and if they don't treat you right, kick them to the curb.

Never put your mental health behind anyone or anything. It's your mind and body and you should treat yourself with the same love and respect that you give away to everyone else. Take care of yourself, always.

Finally, become happy with who you are. I know it's a difficult road to traverse, but you're halfway there -- keep going. Find the things you love and let your passion rule your life.

I love you, no matter what,

Yourself