Dear younger self,
There is so much I wish you would have known when you were little. You're most likely talking with friends about high school, stressing about whether people like you, or complaining about how hard your life. You're always thinking about how amazing growing up will be when you can drive and go off to college, but there is a lot of living to do before that. Not everything will be good, but everything turns out fine. I wish I could go back and tell you how amazing life truly is, but I can't. If I had the chance these are a few things I would say.
People will not always like you and that's okay. Grade school is all about who likes who and rumors; honestly high school is not that much different. Those people who were mean to you, you will never ever see again. They won't matter in your life. So don't worry about their opinions, they're usually wrong. What about those friends you thought would be there forever? You have been blessed with great friends that have been by you since day one. You are still friends with people from grade school, you will meet true friends in high school, and many amazing friends in college. To the ones that got away, let them go. Don't fight for them as there is a reason they are no longer in your life.
Don't focus on relationships. Relationships will come and go, but that's okay. As life moves on it will take you many amazing places, let it. Don't base your life on those around you. Relationships are important, but relationships will come and go...You will learn to love and learn to let go.
If I could tell you one thing, listen to your friends and family about that guy. They can see what you can't. Trust their opinions. You're family is important and learn to value them. They will always be there for you and love you. Leaving for college is hard, but leaving your family is harder (especially your dog).
I wish I could go back and tell you that your parents are actually cool. You dream about being in charge of your own life and be out from under their control. You will miss them like crazy. You would probably die laughing if I told you mom will be your best friend. They will see you through some of your toughest times, but treat you just the same. They will love you no matter what you do.
If there is one thing I so wish I could tell you it is to believe in yourself. People will try to bring you down and tell you you're not good enough or you can't. Don't listen. Little girl, you are beautiful, smart, loving, but most importantly kind. While being the hottest or best looking is important back then, being kind is far far more important. Never lose sight of who you are. You are amazing.
Growing up is incredible experience. I wish I could tell you to enjoy it and don't stress. Your life turns out amazing, take in every experience, believe the bad times will be worth it, and treasure the good. There is so much good to come. Your life turns out just as you imagined, but better. Trust everything life throws your way as every experience teaches you a lesson. Life is an incredible ride and enjoy every second.
