Where do I even begin? 16 is a great age, & in general, it treats you well.
You have experienced a lot compared to most people at this age. You have big dreams, and by now, you already realize that there is so much that you want to do, see, & accomplish.
I wish you would push yourself more in school. You are so smart, but so many times, you take the easy way out. You treat High School as more of an extended social event than a learning environment. You could be at the top of your class, and you will go on to be on the deans list each semester in college. You are smart! You just need to learn time management and study skills. Have some of your smart friends help you out!
You recently got back from your first missions trip, and got your first taste of Africa.
I love going back and reading the journals you kept from that time. Your love for the nation and the people you met shines through in your words.
You will have another opportunity to step back on African soil in the near future. It will be an even better experience the 2nd time around. Keep the memories close to your heart, and never forget how blessed you are for these experiences.
They have changed you as a person and will continue to mold your life each day.
You are currently taking a class in school dealing with early childhood education. You love it because you get to work with 4 and 5 year-olds. It is in this class that your passion to work with young children ignites. Don't question it.
This is what you love.
People search their entire lives for something that makes their heart happy, and you have found it at the ripe age of 16!
Be thankful. Chase that. Follow it.
Learn as much as you can in this class. Its free education!
You have so many exciting things to look forward to in the next few years.
You will become a dog person.
You will go to Europe.
You will grow spiritually and intellectually.
& you will
fall in love.
I don't want to give too much away, but things are going to be pretty good for you.
Enjoy each day.
High school seems like it will last forever, but its really over much too quickly.
Take pictures, right down memories, cherish moments.
Take a stand for what you think, believe, and feel. Don't let others influence you to do things their way. Continue to forge your own path.
It will turn our pretty beautifully.
Oh, and 1 more thing-
Please choose a different color prom dress. Pink just isn't our color!
Love, your 21 year old self
xox
