Dear sixteen-year-old self,

There are many things that I wish I would've done differently, but I am glad that everything has led me here. You'll find that life isn't so kind sometimes. In fact, it can leave you feeling small and alone. Just remember that everything truly does happen for a reason. Every decision you make will alter the path you walk. For the most part, your path is filled with wonderful memories, love, and bliss.

You will go through a couple of very hard trials during your teen years that will make you wonder if it will ever get better. Let me give you a little peace of mind by telling you that it does. You just have to hold on tight to those that love you because they will become your rock in those dark times. Hold on tight to your faith as well. It will help direct and guide you when you find yourself feeling lost.

There are a few things that I wish I had known at 16. Here are just a few heads up that will help you in the long run:

1. Do not take that cigarette when it is offered to you! It's not cool and you will become addicted. Believe me, it's not worth it.

2. Save your money girl. Enjoy shopping every once in awhile, but not every weekend. You'll be thankful that you actually saved your money rather than buying all those clothes you know you're never going to wear anyways.

3. It's ok that you have no idea what's after high school. Relax and have fun now before real responsibilities take over.

4. Don't quit color guard just so you can work more. You love it and would have more fun continuing it rather than working all the time.

5. Listen to mom and dad. They give awesome advice if you'll just stop thinking you already know everything. P.S. You don't.

6. Stop skipping class!

7. Love your body! You're not fat, you have a great body. Seriously, it will never look this good again. Wear that bikini and be confident.

8. Spend more time with your family. They are the ones who will be there after you graduate high school and everyone else goes their separate ways.

9. I know you're heartbroken over him, but that boy is not worth all those tears. Stop letting him lead you on and just enjoy being single. Believe me, you'll meet someone who really cares and loves you. Your future husband is pretty amazing by the way.

Life is going to get hard. You're going to feel like you can't handle it. You are a lot stronger than you think, though. Keep holding tight to your bible and pray when you feel like the world around you is crashing down. You'll get through it better than you ever imagined. You're going to look back one day and take pride in knowing you overcame so much. Start believing in yourself because you will achieve some pretty big accomplishments.