“If I could write a letter to me…” -Brad Paisley, Letter to Me

Since it’s back to school season, pick a year and write a message to yourself on the first day of school.

* I’ve never been very sentimental about high school, but I’ve chosen one of those years to write about.

Dear Me at the beginning of Freshman Year (2001),

This is going to be a big year. There will be tragedy and heartbreak, and lots of joy and growth. This year will change you, and you’ll come out better and stronger on the other side.

You’ve probably already figured this out, but your school is remodeling this year. Be flexible, but be careful. And be thankful that although you’ll have three different lockers this year, the combination only changes once.

Nothing I can say will prepare you for the tragedy that will unfold in September. But as you witness history, consider the words of Mister Rogers and “look for the helpers.” Great unity and strength come out of darkness.

Sixteen years later and I still feel unprepared to tell you about first love. Maybe it’s better if I don’t tell you much more than be brave and be you. He’ll like you for who you are. Let the butterflies flutter.

And yet, this first love won’t be your greatest. When the heartbreak comes, draw close to those around you. Take solace in your friends.

Take risks. Tryout for the play. Speak up. Work hard. Be you. As your world gets bigger and you meet more people, you’ll find more who share your interests. You’re not as weird as you think you are. (Well, maybe you are, but there are others who share that weirdness.)

I’m here to tell you that you’ll live a life you can only imagine right now. I’m here to tell you that life goes on after junior high. I’m here to tell you keep writing in that journal.

With love from me to me.

P.S. You are pretty and you don’t need a boy to tell you so.