'If I'd known then'

What would your adult self say to your younger self if given the chance? A few years back I picked up a book called, “If I’d known then”, where different women in their 20’s and 30’s wrote letters to their younger selves. After reading some of the letters, I was inspired to write my own. There was something really amazing and powerful about the way their words showcase not only their journey into adulthood, but also their love story within. We go through so many obstacles in life in order to arrive at the perfect destination-we cry, we struggle, we get our heart broken sometimes, and just when we think we can’t anymore, we show that we can in ways we never thought possible. Below is the letter I wrote to my younger self when I was 19. I thought about writing a new one since a few years have passed, but I think my 19 year old self said it best. Go ahead, write your own-I dare ya.  

Dear Steph,

I know life seems tough now; but I’m sorry to say, it only gets tougher.  You will hit some rough patches and you won’t understand it.  You will cry until you have no tears left and you won’t think you are strong enough.  But listen drama queen, you are one of the strongest people I know.  And the challenges you face only make you stronger.  I’ve learned a lot in 19 years but here are the two most important things of all: everything happens for a reason (you might not see it right away, but you will be thankful in the future), and life moves on (it’s just up to you whether to move along with it).

Try not to be so naïve.  People make promises they can’t keep, they lie, and they disappoint you- it’s just a part of life. Forgive them, but never forget. Sometimes people are meant to be in your life for 5 minutes, 5 years-and if their lucky, forever.  It’s all about what God has in store for you. 

Enjoy your youth because you only have it once. Don’t rush into adulthood.  I know your mom has told you, “everything has its time”, and you may have rolled your eyes but trust me, she is right.  Cherish everything around you because time goes by so quickly.  Don’t stress so much about insignificant things that will seem silly years from now.  Dance for as long as you can, laugh every chance you get, and smile even when you’re feeling blue.

Don’t take your family for granted; they may seem a little annoying now, but later you will realize they define who you are.

Don’t worry about having relationships; you will have plenty of time for that later.  One day, you will meet a boy who is going to love you for everything that you are, inside and out.  Never settle.  You want the fairy tale, and you can get it if you want to. Just because it’s your first love, doesn't mean it will be the last. Remember, it’s only a mistake if you don’t learn from it.  Most importantly, love yourself and make yourself happy before anyone else can. 

Your friend,

Steph