Dear Younger Macy,

Do not be afraid of anything, little one. Your heart is so full of love and hope and joy, and please remember to hold on to that. At six-years-old, I know you are shaken with fear of moving to a new town and meeting so many unfamiliar faces, but don’t ever hesitate. Do not be so soft-spoken, because your words have so much meaning. There is no need to be shy, little Macy; you are kind and so intelligent for your age, and the world deserves to hear your voice. You are tiny, but your heart is bigger than the physical boundaries of your appearance. The world is balancing on your itty-bitty fingertips. Remember to aim for greatness, and don’t forget to push yourself.

At ten-years-old, you are trying to find your place. But do not worry about trying to fit in with the kids at school. You don’t have to know what you want to be when you grow up. Simply focus on being a kid. Do not be too afraid to jump off of the swingset with your arms in the air. Keep taking dance classes, even if you think you aren’t good enough. Have confidence in who you are, and do not fear the repercussions. Try out for the lead role in the school play, and always do what is right. Speak up for those who do not have courage, and don’t forget to speak up for yourself.

At thirteen-years-old, do not feel pressured to be just like everyone else. Make-up isn’t necessary, because you are naturally beautiful. You don't have to straighten your hair everyday. You are simply one of a kind. You are still a kid, Macy, and don’t forget it. The mascara isn’t necessary, because those eyes are going to always be beautifully wide with wonder for the world. Everyone has pimples, kiddo. Don’t stress. Your geometry test is not the end of the world, and middle school does not last forever. Be confident in your abilities, and don’t forget to love yourself.

At fifteen-years-old, learn the importance of studying. Try to obtain information for the knowledge itself and not simply for the A’s. It’s time to start growing up, Macy. Open those beautiful eyes, and remember to be aware. You are not going to marry the first boy you fall for. Don’t forget to stay true to yourself and stay away from distractions. Don’t be afraid to cry. Feeling sad sometimes is more than okay. Please remember that God will always be there for you, and remember the importance of prayer. Have faith that there is life after death, and don’t forget to take care of yourself.

At seventeen-years-old, do not stress. Please know that high school is not the end, because it is the beginning of a new chapter. Be aware that friends come and go, but family is forever. Always remember that your mom is your best friend. Do not be afraid to take risks and venture away from the crowd. Don’t worry about the future, and you don’t have to map everything out. Be who you want to be, and forget about everyone's expectations of you. Trust me, everything will fall into place. Change is inevitable, and it can be so incredibly beautiful. Oh, dear Macy, don’t forget to believe in yourself.

To my younger self: never be afraid. There is no use in worrying or stressing or doubting, because life is a maze of twists and turns that unfold to become God's plan. You are so very blessed, and you will be reminded of how amazing life is when you are eighteen-years-old. You are beautiful and courageous and intelligent and faithful. Looking back on my younger years just makes me want you to keep one reminder close to the heart… don’t ever forget to be yourself.

With love,

Macy