Dear 13-year-old me,
First and foremost, you are beautiful. I know you don’t feel like it, but please trust me. If you tell yourself every day that you are beautiful, you will start to believe it. And wow, what a wonderful feeling it is to believe in your own beauty; however, I realize it is difficult for you to look past the superficial features of being a brand new teenager, and honey, this is only the beginning. You have a lot coming your way. Listen closely.
Looking in the mirror, you see frizzy hair, a mouth full of metal and skin covered in acne. I’m not even going to comment on the Aeropostale shirt with the giant white applique letters that you’re wearing. Don’t worry, I promise some of these features will change. Your hair will eventually calm down and actually do what you want. The day will soon come when those awful braces are removed; it will be one the best days of your life. Until then, get those crazy colored bands on your brackets! This is the only time when having a colorful smile is socially acceptable. Embrace it.
Though your future holds smoother hair and a straighter smile, I’m sorry to tell you that your skin will never be flawless like you’re dreaming it will be. Don’t believe the people who say acne will go away—they lie. You’re also hoping that you will grow past your height of 5 feet and 6 ½ inches, right? I’m laughing out loud. Don’t even get your hopes up. If you do, you’ll be 19 and still checking if you have reached that full inch mark (even though you haven’t grown since you were 12). It’s best you just accept your height now and save yourself the disappointment.
Your appearance isn’t the only thing that will change in the next few years. Some of the “BFFs” you have now won’t even be in your future. A few of the most important people in your life haven’t even met you yet. Don’t fret. Follow your heart and let the puzzle pieces fall into place; however, try not to get too wrapped up in the drama that comes with your friendships—especially if you are fighting about boys. No, he’s not the love of your life. No, he’s not your best friend’s soul mate either. Just stop fighting about it. Now.
I’m sure you’re a bit overwhelmed about all of this information, but let me tell you this: you have one steady support system that will never leave your side and will love you no matter what. Who is it? Your family. Yes, I know that Mom and Dad can be annoying, but that’s only because you are so incredibly similar to them that you can’t stand it. I also know that your brothers can be unbelievably frustrating, but they will be some of the best friends you could ever ask for. Give them a hug next time you see them, because they deserve it.
There is only one person in this world that will be there for every single second of this crazy life: you. You spend every waking moment with yourself, so shouldn’t you love who you are? Why do you tear yourself down? Learn from your mistakes. Forgive yourself. Tell yourself that you’re beautiful. Be your own support; you’re going to need it when you feel like you have nobody to turn to. I promise it will all work out.
That’s about all you need to know. Don’t worry, you’ve got this. The next six years are going to be one crazy roller coaster. Buckle up and enjoy, because you are in for one hell of a ride.
Love,
You
