Dear Julia,

You’re probably reading this sometime in the future. I don’t know when, but if you’re reading this, it’s probably because you need it. It may be next year when you’re a freshman in college. It may be in ten years.

Who knows?

You’re currently a senior in high school. You’re graduating in about 38 days. You’ll have to say goodbye to all your high school friends soon, and you’re kind of stressing out at the moment about all the things you need to get done for next year.

Even though you’re stressing a bit, you’re in a good place right now. You’re keeping your circle small with only the people who make you happy. You’re excited for college and your future. You’re excited to be independent and make some mistakes that you can learn from. Ahead of you is a bunch of new experiences.

If you’re reading this, maybe you’re stressed, confused, or in a not-so-good place. Remember that you’ll push through it like you always do. If you’re stressed out, remember to divide and conquer. Pace yourself. Plan out your days. Make lists of what you need to get done. Take it day by day.

If you’re confused about something, maybe your feelings or you don’t know what to do about a situation that may arise at college or life, remember who and what makes you genuinely happy. Remember who you are and what your morals are.

You have people by your side who will help you get along in life. Talk to your best friends. Talk to your cousins. Talk to your mom; even though her nagging may get annoying, she will know what’s best for you. They all have helped and loved you in the past, and they will do the same in the future.

Remember that you’re strong and smart. You’ve made it this far, and you’ll make it through whatever else you need to get through. You know what makes you happy and what makes you sad. You know who makes you a better person and who drags you down.

You know the qualities to look out for in a person that means they might be a toxic person. You just have to use your gut feeling. Don’t doubt yourself. I know you; you’re pretty sure of who you are as a person. You’re a good person with good intentions. You’re caring less and less what people think of you.

I’m proud of you. You’re growing as a person and you’ll continue to grow. You’ve been through some shit, and you’ll make it through whatever else life has to throw at you.

You’re always pretty good at cheering others up. Maybe reading this will help cheer yourself up.

Sincerely,

You on April 18, 2018