Dear Old, Teen Me,

I remember how you're feeling. People may never guess that we are two completely different people. You care too much about what guys think of you, or about the opinion of the popular girl in high school. I’m in no way trying to force you to be happier, because you aren’t. It’s a part of what shaped us, or rather me, today. I am here to remind you a little something. You. Are. Worthy. You are worth more than you feel. I know it’s hard to accept that fact. The doubts that like to creep into your mind try to tell you lies about who you are. Other people don't always understand you, because they won't take the time to get to know you. If they did, they would know you are more than just a shy girl. In fact, many of your friends would say, “You’re so loud.” It’s a good thing, because no one wants to see you quiet and sad. You fake a smile a lot. It's a façade for everyone to believe you are okay, when inside you are crying out for help.

I remember how you can be in a room full of people who are nice to you, but you still feel lonely. Maybe it's because the voices in your head keep telling you lies about what they think of you. Ugly. Unloved. Nothing. Worthless. Sadly, there are so many other words that strike a chord inside of you. So, you look for love in all the wrong places. You need someone to accept you. You need someone love you. You are looking for someone to approve of you. Over and over again, you are disappointed and hurt. I remember how all of that feels like a reminder that you are a failure. You don't feel like you can do anything right. Again, you look for approval from those around you.

Well, you don't need any of that. You are strong. You are independent. You are beautiful. You are worthy. I know you never felt that you were— I remember that feeling. People care about you, so don’t worry about where you are now. It’s all temporary. Without a doubt, you will most likely never see anyone from high school until the official class reunion. You will have a few friends that you can talk to for hours, who will stick with you after. At the end of the day, you don’t have to worry. Take each day by stride. Live. Laugh. Love. When it’s hard to get up, get up anyway. It’s a new day for you to conquer the world and show what you are made of. When everything around you seems to be falling apart, laugh because that’s the best type of medicine for those who feel broken—you aren’t. When those who try to hurt you show hate, show them love. Give them the grace that they may not deserve; it may just shock them.

At the end of the day, life can get difficult. It’s not fair half the time. You might pout, or get depressed, but you are not a complete mess. Stand tall, with your chin up, and show the world that they may keep trying to tear you down, but you will always get back up. Be the person that everyone may not see. Who wants to follow the crowd anyway? Trust me, it won't matter in another four years. Being unique and different is what makes you stand out. Someone will love you for being different than the world. It will be a long journey, but it will be worth it. It’s never going to get completely easy, but you have what it takes to be the person that you've always wanted to be. I know this might sound cheesy and dumb, but who better to get advice from than a future you. We will be happy one day. Taking steps to get there may get tiring, but at least you will keep moving instead of staying in one place. You can do it. Believe in yourself and move forward.

With much love,

The New, Happy You