A letter from February 13th, 2021

Dear Katie, I hope this letter finds you well. By the time you're reading this, you should be already graduated from college! I wonder which school you ended up choosing. I'm thinking App State right now, but maybe you got into Columbia and have gotten to live in the city that never sleeps. How cool would that be? If not, that's okay too. I am proud of you either way. It's currently the night before my 18th birthday. It's hard to believe that my childhood is coming to an end. It really doesn't feel like anything will change between today and tomorrow, but it's still a big step. You're finally an adult! I hate to use the word finally though, it seems like I've been waiting for this moment my entire life. In a way I have, I'm still too sentimental to completely let go. I hope this is still a prominent trait in you. Holding on to the little time you have and making the most out of it. My greatest fear right now is ending up alone. Maybe you've found a partner by now! Or, even your soulmate! I still think that Lorelei is my platonic soulmate, but I'm preparing for us to soon drift apart. I hope that you're surrounded by people who make you truly happy. I want you to have the best experience possible as a new adult. I'm really wondering what you chose to major in too. I want to say Psychology? That seems like my most ideal choice right now! Have you made a decision on a career yet? Is a doctorate still on your mind? I would LOVE to be Dr. Walters! Maybe you chose to pursue your compressed dreams. If so, I can't express how wonderful that is. I'm scared that I am giving up one of the most favorite parts of who I am. I haven't performed in so long, and I miss having a purpose on the stage. There is nothing else in this world that compares to that feeling. I hope you haven't lost it forever. Please continue to follow that part of your heart. I also hope you keep wishing for those same things at every 11:11 you see. I hope you still love La La Land. I hope you still play Roblox. I hope you still do the things you love or at least new things that you've come to love. Do not lose the things you are passionate about. My emotions have felt pretty weak recently. I'm going to the psychiatrist to get clarified for either depression or anxiety or ADHD and maybe get some medicine. Are you still taking those meds? Did you even get any? Do they help? Are you happier now, and does it feel permanent? I hope you make it to read this letter. I hope everything is working out in your life, or at least on that path. There's so much uncertainty right now, but I know it will all fall into place soon. You are so needed in this world, and your purpose will be prominent soon. You've grown into a wonderful person already, and there's only room to grow more! I am so proud of you. Love always, Katie