Dear Teen Me

Why hello there stranger!

I suppose you're looking at this letter with curiosity—I mean we look exactly alike, but I'm older.

Do you remember thinking that you were never good enough for this earth or anyone in it?  Do you remember the multiple options on how to cop out on going to school? Or what sounded better was to end it then and there.

Well don't. It's not worth putting mom, dad, and yes the little brat in more pain and suffering, then it is to deal with the ignorant idiots of school right?

Remember one of the girls telling you nasty things—well when she adds you on Facebook she apologizes to you.

And I do apologize; the words that struck every heart chord during your teen years hurt worse than any knife—they will hurt for the rest of your life—but...it sure does feel good to hear someone say; "I'm Sorry."

Let me give you a piece of advice, and I hope that you take it to heart and everywhere you go:

Do not get up every day thinking that you have to impress anyone.  If they don't like you,
tough; they missed out on getting to know a great gal like yourself.

And I should know; I am you.

Don't ever let anyone try and get you down, they're not worth your time and effort. Remember, you are an amazing and talented young woman with a bright future ahead of her—A bright future at New Brunswick Community College.

College? New Brunswick?

Oh, yes I did forget to mention that didn't I? You move because of dad's job. There you will meet amazing people who become our friend—best friend—who you consider a sister. Her mom is your adopted second mother, by the way.

You also become more confident and assertive as time goes on when you start your first job at sixteen. You make new friends, and become happier with yourself and your self-esteem goes up.

Have you ever thought you would ever sing with one of your best friends on stage in front of an entire school, even though you can't necessarily sing?  No, probably not. Well, guess what, you do, and just between you and me; it was a fantastic experience and I guarantee you it will be something that you will smile about—even four years down the road.

What about being a Student Council Representative for your class at the college which is a big responsibility right? Oh, you guessed it: you do that too!

Oh, oh, oh! What about becoming a writer? Remember that horrible fanfiction you wrote for English Class? The one for Gundam SEED? Remember it? Ah, I can just imagine the wonderful gears in your head finally turning. Well, point blank, it was horrible. The grammar, spelling, vocabulary—utterly crap-tastic! But don't worry about it—you get better in your writing. How? By two amazing friends from fanfiction.net helping you get to where you are most comfortable with your writing.

Did I mention that you also get two short-stories published?

Anyway, I remember when I was your age that the military was far from your mind. Now, I bet you're looking at this letter with confusion as you wonder why the military would be mentioned in this self-addressed letter. Surprised, right?

Well, at the moment your future self is in the process of becoming a member of the Canadian Forces as a Resource Management Support Clerk.

I shouldn`t really spoil anymore than I should, but just so much amazing experiences coming your way and some you will regret and some you will forever hold onto in your heart.

So keep your head up, your spirits high, and the shining light of opportunities will shine on you.

Sincerely,

Your 22 year old Self.