I wish we could stand side by side. I wish I could compare the physical changes, and the growth. I wish I could travel back in time, and tell you all the things that you have in store, both good and bad. I could warn you about those stupid boys. The ones that sweet talk your heart. And I'd comfort you and tell you that when they break your heart, it is not the end of the world, even though it may feel it. I would warn you that your best friend now, would simply be someone that you used to know. Your two paths will go separate ways. I would encourage you to spend so much more time with your family, as they are not on this Earth forever. I would prepare you for every great adventure you will endure. But...I cannot go back in time. I cannot show you your future. And maybe, just maybe, that is for the best. The woman you will become is strong, and beautiful. She is resilient, she is confident. She is kind. And she is powerful. With that, here are a few things I have learned throughout my 22 years.
Love with your entire heart. It is a beautiful thing to not only receive, but to give love. Despite how corny it may sound, it makes the world a better place. Some people may take advantage of your giving heart. That is okay. Consider them lucky to have received your love. We are here for a purpose. We are here to learn. We learn who deserves to receive our love, and learn to part from those who don't. We will learn, everyday, until our last day. Never regret gifting your heart.
Do not hold onto hate. Hatred is too heavy for anyone to carry. Hatred it the ultimate baggage. Everyday when you wake up, you are in control. Complete control. You draw the map of your life. Do not let those who have hurt you, control you. Forgive even the unforgivable. Forgive for your peace of mind, and peaceful life. Anyone can hate, it takes a strong being to throw those grudges into the river, and watch them float away.
Spend time with your family. Spend time with the people you love. Make memories, because one day, they will be all you have. Savor your grandma's cooking, hang out with your parents, play with your little cousins, drink wine with your crazy aunties. As much as we try to avoid the thought of them being gone...we will most likely outlive them. With every moment, simple or special, take a minute and capture it, whether it's with a camera or your mind. Keep the memories safe in your heart. Reference and revisit them always.
Your pain is NEVER insignificant. No matter how small the cut, it still stings. Do not let anyone tell you that the reasons for your hurt are silly. Whether it be from a breakup, a death, or an inconvenience throughout the day, sadness and anger will consume you at certain points of your life. Take the time you need to cry and grieve. The healing process Is different for everyone, and there is no rule book.
Travel. Travel travel travel. I promise you, that thousand dollar bag can wait. Save your money, and travel. Travel alone. Travel with your friends. Travel with your family. What materialistic item can compare to witnessing the northern lights, floating in a crystal blue ocean, or walking through the ancient ruins? Buy the plane ticket. Those memories will last you a lifetime.
My last piece of advice, as cheesy as this sounds, is to live, laugh, and love. And do it with passion! People will remember you for the imprint that you left on their life. They will remember how you treated them. They will remember the impact you made when you walked into a room, and how you made them feel. Life is so damn short, so do something impactful with your limited time on Earth. Time is the one thing that we will never have enough of. We can't produce it, and we can't stop it. Live in the moment, laugh extra loud, and love with your entire heart. This is the only life you will receive, and it is the greatest gift. Cherish it.
