Looking back on this time in my life, there are many things I wish I knew then that I know now.
Dear 9th grade self,
Okay, so I know this is a scary change. You are going from the smallest middle school in your district, to a brand new high school that's not just one floor...but two!! You are going from being with your best friends, to having to split with many due to the way the district works. You are saying goodbye to two years of amazing memories where you really came out of your shell. You are leaving some of the best teachers/support system you have ever had. You are moving on to the next chapter in your life. And I'm here to tell you, its going to be alright. Sure, you may be late to a class or two. Maybe your first research paper doesn't meet the page requirement. And maybe, just maybe, you get lost on your way to the bathroom. Take a deep breath, and just hear me out. You are going to have to deal with some pretty crappy drama due to your choice of some of the people you chose to be around. Don't worry, I will go into more detail later about this topic. Also, just a heads up, there are going to be days when you come home crying because you are "too caring" and "too nice" of a friend, and aren't always appreciated. Some nights you may be up till midnight finishing a math assignment because you didn't understand what the teacher said in class earlier that day. Please use the study skills staff and all of their helpful hints. It will make the rest of high school, and even college (yes, you will make it to college) a less stressful experience. Please realize that there are no dumb questions. I have heard time and time again, all questions are important because even though you may be hesitant to ask it, I guarantee there is at least one other person wondering too. Going back to the academics of high school, please don't get discouraged being in smaller classes. You have an I.E.P. and need a little extra help...AND THAT'S OKAY! You are in the best learning environment for you to succeed, so who cares what anyone else thinks. Going off of what others think, and the group you chose to spend time with, I have only four words for you...STAND UP FOR YOURSELF! You are an amazing friend and all around person, don't forget that! If you forget, I hope you read this letter and consider it a reminder. You deserve people in your life who are going to treat you just as awesome as you treat them. So when you feel like you are the door mat, or being used, please just walk away. I know it's hard, and much easier said than done. But you'll thank me in the long run. While I'm a big believer in that everything happens for a reason, I do wish I had walked away much sooner than I did from the toxic people in my life. Could have, would have, should have right? Anyway, enough of that topic. I hate to ruin the surprise, but you will also end up bonding with some of your high school teachers. They will have your back, and teach you some very tough, but important, life lessons. I know you thought that once you got to high school, the teachers stop caring. (I'll keep some of it a mystery and let you see for yourself who you get along with). But once you let your wall down and confide in them, some (not all) will be there for you for life. Last, but not least, you need to get involved in an extracurricular activity. I know its overwhelming because you feel like just a number when you are with your whole graduating class. But you were awesome on the yearbook committee in middle school, and were a great buddy in the buddy club with the special needs class. You have a gift, Morg...you are unique. And the sooner you realize it, the more amazing things you will be able to do in life. I get it, its a process. Sometimes you are going to hit bumps in the road that are going to make you second guess. Let those speed bumps become a roller coaster, and just enjoy the ride!
Sincerely, Me (24, college senior, and a work in progress)
