This is by no means a new concept, but it is something I've been thinking a lot about lately.
Dear 17-year-old-me,
Some of the best advice I've ever received, is something so simple and common it often gets overlooked: "Pick your battles." Some things are worth fighting for, the rest can figure itself out. Pick. Your. Battles.
That being said, Relax. No, don't be lazy. RELAX. You are too damn angry for being so young, give it up. Do some yoga. Eat a cookie. Find your peace. Whatever. Just do it. Trust me, it's so much better. You spend far too much time being angry.
Forgive your parents. They are only human, and divorce is hard on everyone.
Stop letting "No" be your first reaction to every question.
The petty-high-school games do not end in high school. They will be part of your life, everyone's life, forever. I'm sure there will be petty gossip & feuds to deal with from your wheelchair in Shady Oaks nursing home. I'm not saying condone the behavior or jump in the middle, just don't be surprised by it, and take it all in stride.
Shut up. You are not fat. You are just not skinny. Skinny is overrated. There is nothing wrong with being a size 11. So just stop stressing about it, you are beautiful. Embrace your curves and let them work for you.
Don't stop writing. Or drawing. Or singing. You are better when they are a part of your life.
Don't drop out of college. There's plenty of time for paychecks and parties, finish school.
Beware the quarter-life crisis, it's a doozy.
It never works out the way you hope with him. And that's ok. It's better than ok. The relationship may not be worth all the heart ache in the end, but the strength you find in yourself to walk away is worth every tear you'll shed. I promise, honey.
You'll meet and marry an amazing man, and Layla is more beautiful than you have ever imagined her to be....
Spend more time with your siblings. Hug John. Often. Listen more, preach less.
Laugh. Laugh at life, at yourself, at your lowest moments, through your tears... laugh.
