A letter from October 21st, 2016

"I knew who I was this morning, but I've changed a few times since then." Looking back over the years, I realize how much I have changed and grown as a person. This made me reflect on who I was, who I am now, and who I want to be. So, to my future self: I hope this letter finds you well and happy in life. If not, then keep your head up, because brighter days are coming. No matter where you are in life, whether you have three kids and a husband or whether you're traveling the world by yourself, I hope your life is what you want it to be. And if not, then change it. Really. It's that simple. I hope you realize all that you are capable of. You can move mountains, and I hope you're doing just that. You have the ability to do great things, but also don't let that go to your head. Stay humble. Hopefully by now you've graduated college and have a job which you love. If not, you seriously need to get it together. Maybe you have a husband or maybe you don't, either way, it's okay. If you do, I hope he treats you like the amazing person you are and if not, I hope you're smart enough to see you deserve better and strong enough to leave. As for kids, if you do have them, I hope they are your world. Never let them forget how much you love them or what they are capable of. There's also a few things you need to remember wherever you are: 1. No matter how busy you might be, make time for the people you love. They won't always be there. Seriously don't be a workaholic. 2. Remember to always have fun. Life is hard once you get older, so I hear. Stay young at heart. Take time to do the things you love before you're too old to do them. 3. Stay true to yourself. Too many people will try to change you, but you can't let them. The world can be cruel and judgemental, but never forget to stay true to who you are. You're a great girl, and people will love you for you. If not, that is their loss and not yours. Don't lose sleep over it. 4. "Never lose sight of where you're going, but always remember where you came from." No matter if you end up two miles down the road or halfway across the world, remember the people, places, and events that got you to where you are today. Always stay thankful for what you have, because you are so incredibly lucky. 5. Life probably isn't how you planned it to be, and that's okay. Things don't always work out according to plan, but that's okay because there is someone out there who has it all planned out for you. Don't worry if all your friends are getting married and having kids. What's meant to be will be, just trust it. Great things are coming, and I can't wait for you to experience them. So, I hope you're out there doing amazing things and taking the world by storm. Always know that you are loved no matter what mistakes you have made. Let's face it, we make plenty of mistakes, and I'm sure that will never change. I hope you never feel unloved, and I hope you love with your whole heart no matter the risks. Whenever you look back on this letter, whether it be 10 years or 50, or if you ever even do, I hope you can look back on your life and smile. Love yourself always.