A letter from May 28th, 2021

Dear Future Me, Well, it's been a while. Writing this in 7th grade, the pandemic eases out and everything starts to return to normal. This last year hasn't been the most normal, but it's been something to remember. I've seen good and bad days, and things happened that haven't happened in many years. For 8th grade, I hope to become a part of the NJHS, and be able to go out places with people. I currently have straight A's (I better keep it that way!!) and I hope to eventually express myself the best I can. High school is a bit away, but I plan to either go to Tech or Classical. This year has been so messed up, but I hope next year will allow new opportunities. If I did end up going to Tech, I really (currently) want to go into the culinary field or childcare. Maybe I'll be a teacher? By the time you receive this, future self, you'll be graduating high-school. I'm so proud of how far you've gotten and I hope you accomplish whatever you want. As I grow, I'm not sure what field I want to pursue in college and beyond, but my family and teachers are inspirations to become a teacher like them. This year, I've realized that although I've followed one main path, I'd like to branch out and I'm still not entirely sure what the future will hold. Writing this in a classroom has made me realize what I really love. I take a knack for creative writing (Remember the play you made in 6th grade and acted out at lunch with Lindsey and the others? I do... kind of embarrassing.) and enjoy dancing. This year, as the regular competition dance ends (I just did tap this year, FYI), I'm going to have summer classes and continue to grow (especially when I have NOT stretched since 2020..). Some important people in my life.. There's a lot, haha, so I'll write mini sections for everyone. -- You're welcome in advance. ;) - Ava. You're always there for me, through thick and thin, and have helped me come to terms with myself. Making this letter is a personal way to realize how much I really do cherish you. I'm sorry if we part ways, entering high-school, but I hope you'll always remember me. - Mom. You really are someone I look up to in more ways than one. You brighten my life, even if I'm a pain most times. You really are my favorite. :) These days, I'm thinking about the future, the past, but not really on the present. I take part in sign language club and will be inducted (Is that the right word? Oh well) into NJHS this upcoming fall. Hopefully (haven't heard back yet, sad face), I'll be part of a pre-college program at Endicott College this summer (crossing my fingers, but we won't know lol). Last year, I took part in virtual Eureka (for the summer), and this school year, I took part in Odyssey. As it comes to a close, I really thank myself for doing the programs I did. The THAs were really my favorite group and helped me know more about myself. :)) I'm still 'figuring myself out,' but I'm taking a leap by going to a pride event hosted by the aforementioned THAs (^^!!) and so maybe, just maybe, I'll be part of something great. Dear Future Self, I hope you're good and well when receiving this letter. Have a fun time in college, and I'll talk to you later! Love, Amelia (Or Lyn. Should we call ourself Lyn?