To a younger, smaller, less courageous, innocent version of myself,
First thing's first, relax. Fast forward ten years from now and I can tell you, you're definitely on the right track. Take deep breaths, and let me tell you a little bit about life. So, that big dream of yours that you had in fourth grade of going to New York University in the middle of Manhattan and becoming a teacher or a Broadway star... That's definitely not where you ended up. So to get you through these "most important years of your life," here are some words of advice to keep you going.
You skipped kindergarten. Big accomplishment, but it only gets harder from here. Too bad you couldn't have taken an advanced level chemistry class and eased your way out of that one. As hard as your classes may seem now, keep listening to your teachers and mom and dad. Dad always tells you, "never fall behind." You may think he will get rid of that catchphrase, but it never stops. When mom tells you to pay attention, you may want to take those words to heart too, I've learned that from many mistakes along the way. But I promise, you will be successful.
From a motto you have probably already started hearing, TREAT OTHERS HOW YOU WANT TO BE TREATED! I can not express enough how important and enlightening it is to compliment the girl who sits next to you in your math class in middle school's shoes. Or even simpler, smile and don't forget to say hello to the girl who likes the same boyband as you. You are going to make so many friends this way. You will be surrounded by the most amazing people.
Please do not listen to your Assistant Principal in high school when she tells you your skirt is too short because "your hips are too wide." Body shaming isn't even supposed to be a thing, and I sure as hell know you're more confident than to take those words from her. Also, keep singing so the whole world can hear you. Never let anyone stop you. You are beautiful and talented.
Keep watching your favorite movies, playing board games, and drinking hot chocolate with your family on school nights... I think I took advantage of those moments when I was your age. These moments are going to shape you into the person you become.
As an elementary schooler, you're just in the beginning stages of your life. Keep playing on the huge trampoline and pool in your backyard, jamming out to Hannah Montana on your karaoke machine, and having the time of your life. Always call your relatives and make time to see them. Hug and kiss your pets - no, it's not weird to talk to them either, everyone does that. It's okay to be scared and confused about the future and what it holds, I'm pretty positive that's what life is all about.
I'd hate to spoil your entire young years for you, but you made it out pretty darn well. You managed to get into your top college. You've been heartbroken a few times, had a few rejections, and even rejected some yourself. You've lost some friends, but in the process you've gained hundreds more. Somehow, you ended up in a perfect place surrounded by the most perfect people in your life. You are beautiful, smart, friendly, successful, and cared about and loved by so many people, and you're the coolest elementary schooler out there, but I may just be biased.
Oh, one last thing, that crush you have on your teacher... He's way out of your league.
Give your cat and Nana and Grandpa a huge hug. You'll need to remember those moments someday.
Love always,
Tara
