Dear Young Me

As an exercise in treatment yesterday, we were told to write a letter to our younger selves. Here is mine.

Dear young me,
There are so many things I would want you to know. Things you never got to hear. I know right now you feel pushed aside and like you don't matter. I know you just want attention. And that you just want to feel accepted. You will learn that even though mom and dad can't provide those things, someone else will. You will form incredible friendships and other relationships. Your struggles will allow you to have incredible empathy. Just know you are worth it. You don't need to weigh only a certain amount to please people. You are beautiful. A few years ago, the light in your eyes was real. You had so much fun. And you knew you were pretty. The amount things can change is remarkable. Don't let the craziness around you affect you. Hold on for the ride. One day you'll be okay. I promise. You have so much potential and the ability to achieve your dreams. Don't let the fact that other people stole your spotlight keep you from trying. Find comfort and acceptance from within because I know you aren't getting it from others. Take satisfaction from the fact that you reached your goals. Whether it be a front flip that nobody watched or memorizing an entire script in a night. Know that I am proud of you and you should be too. I know that right now nobody is noticing your successes but one day they'll be the ones who regret missing things. Don't live with regrets simply because you want to be noticed. Put yourself first sometimes. You are in control of your future. One day people will realize just how incredible you are and that they should have noticed sooner. Just believe in yourself.

Love,
Older you

...

What would you say to your younger self?

xo
Aria