A Letter to a Younger Me

Life is crazy, but I hope that, no matter what roadblocks you experience, you know that God will be and is with you and is standing by your side through it all. I wish I had realized that sooner in my life. It would have made things a lot easier.

I hope you know that no matter what other people think of you, you are incredible and have something great to offer.

I hope that you realize how fast life goes. Don’t waste it. You don’t get more of it.

I hope you never lose your sense of humor. It can be really useful at times, even if you don’t realize it yet.

I hope you take life seriously, but also have fun. Stressing about everything seriously sucks. Take it from me: it’s not worth it.

I hope you take your academics seriously but don’t forsake your social life. Again, not worth it. Have friends.

I hope you don’t spend your entire life self-conscious or afraid. I lived so much of my life like that, and I wish I had developed more courage. It would have made life so much more enjoyable.

I hope you read a lot of books throughout your life. They’re wonderful escapes.

Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers. Well, do be afraid of sketchy people, but you can meet some really cool and genuine people just by initiating conversation (even if it feels awkward at first).

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can learn so much more that way. You are not stupid for asking questions, but smart for being willing to learn.

Don’t be afraid to say you don’t know. You do not and will not ever have life figured out, and that’s okay. God does have plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11) and will guide you through.

Don’t try to be too perfect. It’s a waste of time and effort. It brings unnecessary stress to your life. Just try to be your best, and that’s enough. If it’s not enough for other people, whatever.

Don’t live to impress people. Live to please God.

Don’t compare yourself to others. It can lead to a lot of bad things (like depression, anxiety, or pride). Take it from me: It hurts more than it helps.

Don’t ever let fear, doubt, or even people hold you back.

Don’t get too attached to the things of this world. They’re great, but also can lead you away from God and can waste precious time.

Don’t be afraid to fall in love. You will probably get your heart broken at least a few times, but you’ll find the right person. And once you do, it’ll be so worth it.

Don’t be afraid to be involved, but be careful not to overwork yourself. There is a line of what is too much. Know it and know it well (I wish I knew it sooner).

Know that God is with you.

Know that I am here to support, help, encourage, and comfort you.

Know that academics are not everything. I wish I knew that sooner.

Always try something new. You’ll never know what you love or what you’re good at until you try.

Always forgive people. Especially yourself. It’s hard sometimes, I know, but it lifts so much weight off of your shoulders. Trust me.

Always be so full of love, kindness, and humility that you overflow.

Always overflow with God.

Always trust God. He’s got you and He’s got this.