Dear my troublesome anxiety,

You and I go way back, my friend. My earliest memories of you include being anxious and afraid to meet Disney characters at Walt Disney World, being anxious about climbing over fences like the other neighborhood kids, and being too nervous to try different foods. I have grown out of these little fears, yet you have only gotten worse.

Sometimes, we have good days like when you show up right before an exciting concert, or as I get onto a roller coaster, but sometimes you show up unannounced and I wish I could understand why. I do everything you ask of me yet a lot of the time, you disappoint me. Living with you is no easy task and sometimes our little arguments turn into huge blowouts which leave me confused and hurt. Because of you I tend to turn on my friends and family and let you get the best of me but guess what?

That's not going to happen anymore my dear sweet friend. I have a lot of fight in me that you haven't even seen and I am beyond determined to not let you control me anymore. I realize that most of the time you are trying to protect me from the harsh reality of the world, but I need you to know that everything happens for a reason. I know life can get scary and the unknown can be a dark place, but it's time for us to stop running and start fighting.

I appreciate everything you have taught me, and I hope that we can be at peace and live harmoniously instead of being head to head. You are always going to be a part of me so if I can keep you in check, I would hope you would do the same for me.

Much love and forgiveness,
Ariana.