Dear Self,
I know it seems pretty strange writing a letter to yourself, especially where other people can read it. However, I realize at some point in your life you are going to need to read something written by yourself as some weird form of encouragement.
In this present moment, you are doing pretty good. You are content where you are at in life and you've realized that you are you and that's OK, but when life starts to get even harder remember where you were. Remember all of the hard times you have gone through. Know that because of your hard headed nature you have pulled through many circumstances victorious.
Remember in those other moments where depression is crushing your soul and anxiety has held you hostage that you have and will get past those moments. Even in those mornings where getting up is tough, get up anyways. When you cannot make that phone call, do it before your anxiety has the chance to whisper unforeseen fears into your mind.
Know that you are not defined by what a guy thinks about you. In this moment things seem to be going pretty well in that department, but if things end, know that no matter what, you are strong and you do not need a guy to tell you that you are beautiful.
In this moment you tolerate your body. I know it is tough and it is a back and forth thing. Some days you hate it and others your self esteem is high. Go back to this moment when you start to doubt your physical appearance. Know that you are wonderful and people love you for you and not your body type.
When you start to hate your laugh, remember the times when you hated other things about you and how you learned to love it. Realize that your smile is you and that no one else in this world has the same smile. Remember when you hated your birthmark on your face? Now you own it, you know that no one else has one like it and it makes you, you!
If your anxiety tells you someone is going to leave because of an argument, look back at the times you have had disagreements with the ones you love. They are still here. Those are the people that truly matter.
However, when people walk away from you regardless of reason remember they are behind you for a reason. No, we will not know the reason for people leaving, but please remember how many others have left your life and recall how much better things were after that moment. Remember how free you felt after the pain of rejection left your soul and how undeniably free you felt. It is liberating, isn't it?
During those long nights awake studying for a test, don't forget that you are not the grade you make. Missing a few questions and making that B is OK! When you stay awake all night and even when you fail an exam, know that you tried your best. Look back to the countless amounts of times that you felt like you were going to fail a class and you came out better off than you thought. Confidence in yourself is important.
Don't forget saying 'NO' isn't wrong. When life gets too hectic 'no' is an appropriate answer. Sometimes you need to take a break and just recollect. Your true friends will understand and they love you anyways. Taking a break isn't bad. Saying no isn't bad. Take care of yourself.
When life gets hard, Dad is just one phone call or text message away. He loves you and does not want you to hurt. In times of trouble, he gives the best advice. Even if he is not totally happy with something you have done, he is there for you at the end of the day and is your biggest cheerleader. He is proud of you no matter what.
Above all else, remember to pray. In those moments when you can't see past those hard times, look up to God. He is there for you and hears you when you call. It might not be in your timing, but he will answer your prayers. He loves you when you feel like no one else does. Even if you are not struggling, still remember to pray and thank him for everything He has given you.
With that being said, also remember to stay humble. Realize even if your life is going great, someone else might need a pat on the back or a hug. You were once in their shoes, too. Don't forget to let other people know that you care.
I guess what I am trying to say is, you are you. Don't be hard on yourself; you are trying your best like the rest of the world. Know that life is not easy and you will never have it figured out. You will never 100 percent love your body, but accept that is what you have. You might not ever be on the Dean's List, but you are still smart. A guy might dump you, but you still are strong. Love yourself and life and things will be better.
