Dear 16 year old me,
I write this to you as your 4 year old watches "Jake & the Pirates" while the baby sleeps. Don't get dismayed if life as you planned takes longer than you expected. It's worth the wait because it's so much better! You have a fabulous husband who cares for you & two wonderful sons who mean the world to you. Just remember to trust God every step of the way.
Don't worry so much about what others think. It's something you'll struggle with your whole life so if you can whip it now you'll be much better off. That guy who dumped you the day after prom? It seemed like the end of the world, but let your heart heal and move on. The mean girls in high school who wouldn't let you run with the popular crowd? Forget about them. Your best friend now will still be with you 20 years later and will see you through crises after crises. The others don't deserve your devotion. First & foremost, the only one whose opinion matter is God's. Seek after Him and you can't go wrong.
Be glad that your mom taught you to cook & sew. As much as you roll your eyes, these are skills you'll be glad you have -- and even wish you could do better! You'll also be glad she made you clean your room & the bathroom every Saturday! It's completely normal and no, you're not mistreated. Having kids will help you realize that every mom does the best she can and you have one of the greatest! Love her every day.
Most importantly, don't be so focused on having a boyfriend. You don't need to date a lot because God has the perfect guy picked out for you & he will show himself in an unusual way. Just be patient.
Don't forget to check for ticks every time you go outside! If you decide to ignore my advice about caring what others think and go on crazy bike rides, trail runs, hikes, etc. check EVERY TIME. Don't let one little tick stay stuck. You think it won't happen to you but I'm here to tell you that it will, so be careful.
Most of all, keep your optimism and your smile. Don't let life get you down. Because you have it pretty great.
Love,
41 year old me
2 comments:
Touching PJ. My family is camping right now in heavily ticked WI and it worries me as they don't act like it is a big deal even with Joel and I sick!
Thanks for sharing .I have been wondering how you have been doing
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