Dear 10 year old me,
Stay weird. People have distorted definitions of what is normal and what is not normal. However, you will learn that the best people you meet will be when you’re being yourself. That girl across the room on your softball team is probably just as dorky as you are and you will probably be friends for life. If people judge you for being yourself, they are most probably jealous of the fact that you are comfortable being yourself around anyone and everyone. Listen to whatever music you want, whether it’s music from the radio or songs by The Cheetah Girls. Don’t let people tell you your music taste is subpar because everyone has different tastes in music and no genre of music is greater than another.
Don’t give up on love. When it comes to family, you will have fights with your siblings and parents but that does not mean the world is ending. Your parents, brother and sister love you no matter what. They only want what is best for you, whether that be getting good grades or making the right friends. When it comes to friends, you will meet your best friend around this age and go through good and bad times with her. You two will grow up together and be like sisters to one another. You will often find that it is easier to go to her for advice than anyone in your family, after all, she’s out there living the life with you. As for boys, you’re probably experiencing your first crush around now. Whether it’s on the cute boy who sits next to you or Dylan Sprouse, hold onto the butterflies-in-the-stomach feeling. That cute boy in your class who thinks you’re lame for watching Disney Channel could grow up and become the love of your life. Boys are exciting and new boys are always a lot of fun to gossip about with your friends.
Most importantly, believe in yourself. Although you may constantly believe that the world is out to get you, I promise you it will get better for you. It is important to hold onto hope and believe in yourself, especially through troubling times. Hold onto those dreams and aspirations, because you never know what may become reality for you. Reach for the stars and never settle for anything less. Always try your hardest. Something I have learned the hard way is that by only putting in minimal effort, you will not get the results you wanted. Surround yourself with people whose goals are just as high as yours because ambition is contagious. Never give up on yourself. Self-love is just as important as requited love. No matter how many times the world seems to knock you off your feet, dust yourself off and get back up because you can only grow stronger from this minor setback. Your friends and family will help you overcome any difficult obstacles you encounter. Keep them close for the rest of your life.
Love,
20 Year Old Me
