In all honesty, I don't really know how to start this out. Over the years I have experienced and learned a lot of crazy, spectacular, and downright mind-boggling things. I would like to tell you that our future is all great days filled with ice cream that I know you are dreaming about, but even though there is A LOT of ice cream involved in our future (because we love ice cream and pizza), we do face a lot of hardships just like everyone does. We learn a lot of valuable lessons from this and looking back I wouldn't change a single thing because it has made us into who we are today, but I do have some advice that I hope you will take.
First. YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. Do not let anyone ever convince you otherwise. There will MANY breakouts, you are going to make some horrible fashion choices, and you are going to have extremely bad hair days. However, you learn how to do your make-up and hair, and learn that not every fad is one you should follow and to be uniquely and beautifully you. So be patient.
Not everyone has your best interest in mind. Remember that people aren't always who they seem and to guard your heart and take care of yourself first. But when someone puts in the time and effort to show you that they care, let them in (I know it's hard, though). Also, not everyone is going to like you and that is okay. You don't have to impress ANYONE. Sometimes we just aren't people's cup of tea, so don't stress out about why they don't like you because all it does is make you feel bad and hold you back.
You do not need a boy to define your worth. Everyone struggles with this so you are not alone and I know that even if you have not met someone that you think you cannot live without, you will. However, you do not need them even if they are your "soulmate." It is nice to be wanted and to love someone but it's more important to be independent if you have to be and love yourself.
Do not wish any part of your life to be different or nonexistent. We learn as we get older that even if we can't see it in that moment, everything happens for a reason (even the bad things) and it is all going to be perfectly okay in the end. No matter how sad and angry you feel at times you will find a way to push through and be happy. So hang tough.
HIGH SCHOOL SUCKS. Oh my gosh, I am not going to lie to you or anyone! In general, it sucks but you are going to make some really great memories there and leave with a few friends you will hold close forever (but college is truly the best four years of your life, so don't let people tell you high school is).
Finally, ALWAYS be true to yourself. This will make life so much easier. Be goofy and weird, follow your heart, think with your brain, and go fulfill all your dreams. Because you can and will no matter where life takes us.
After 19 years, we have been through a lot and have a lot to learn but I love you and we are going to rock this thing called life
Love,
Your future self
