Dear 14 year-old Me,

Stop worrying about all of the little things. Don’t get so carried away with all of the bad things. Instead, stay positive and remember each day is a gift. You’re going to make mistakes. Stop trying to be perfect all of the time. Accept your mistakes and learn from them. Find one reason each day to smile, because you’ve been crying too much. Spend time with the people who are going to love and care for you no matter what.

Don’t be so concerned about what people think. Stop holding grudges; you’re in high school, and nothing is that bad. Recognize the little things that make you happy, if even for a second. Don’t quit track and persevere through the bad times because your reward will be great. Most of all, stay true to who you are. You might lose yourself along the way at times, but remember to retain the qualities that make you…you.

I love you,

18 year-old Me