Note to self

Dear Younger Me,

I’d say I hope this letter finds you well but I know it does not.

I remember.

You feel like it’s over, like you can’t go on.

Even the sunny days seem gloomy.

The nights last longer than they should.

Lifting your head and breathing feel impossible.

But they aren’t.

I want you to know that it’s worth it to keep going.

You will feel sunshine on your face again.

It will sink into your skin and warm your soul.

Life has so much to offer that you can’t possibly know, and I want it to be easier for you so please know this-

Of all the people who surround you now, very few of them will matter to you later.

Learn to pity the cruel, it is their own unhappiness that makes them seek to make yours.

Do not seek validation in others, it is empty and pointless.

Find things that you enjoy doing, and do them for yourself.

Use your talents, you have plenty.

You are worthy of love, respect, and happiness. Don’t settle and you can have it.

It’s worth the trouble to see where this thing takes you.

I promise.

Sincerely,

Your older self