A letter to the Lydia in 1992

What if you could write a letter to your teenage self? How awesome would it be to share the vast amounts of wisdom you have after all these years?

I thought this was a great idea (thanks to Mama’s Losin’ It’s Writing Workshop), and so, I’ve written a letter to my freshman-year-in-high-school self.

Dear Lydia,

So, you’re starting your freshman year of high school. That’s a big deal! You’re at a new school with older kids who have no clue how awesome you really are. Because I know your levels of awesomeness, let me give you some advice.

* Read those books in English class. Eventually, you’re going to lecture your own students on how stupid it is to only read Spark Notes (that’s what they’ll eventually have instead of Cliff’s Notes on this thing called “The Internet”). So, go ahead and take your own advice from fifteen years later — read the books, understand the characters, and write your papers minus all the BS.

* Don’t drop out of that AP American History class. Yeah, all the people that you’ll talk about in history are dead, but you’re going to need that information for several reasons in the future: passing college classes, teaching American literature, and more. Go ahead and stick out that difficult class. I promise you’ll be glad you did.

* If you’re hoping that the cute boy will “like” you, you should probably try speaking to him. I know it’s hard. Boys are cute and intimidating, but they’re just as nervous about talking to girls as you are about talking to them. Most of the boys have no desire to actually have a girlfriend, so they’re safe. Just talk to them.

* When you do find a boy that likes you back, keep it simple.There is no need, at your age, to decide on your marriage propositions. You have plenty of years to meet plenty of guys. Give yourself a chance to just be a kid.

* Come out of your shell. In a few years, you’re going to realize how comfortable you are in front of a crowd. Go ahead and let that happen now. The stage will be one of your favorite places, so find some ways to hone your untapped brilliance.

* Your mom and dad are actually really smart. I know, I know. They frustrate you and seem to have rules for everything. Thing is, they’ve been where you are and what they’re saying will truly make sense some day. So, instead of rolling your eyes, take a moment and consider their advice.

* Soak up every second you have with your grandparents. They won’t be around forever. Instead of deciding that a phone call or TV show is more important than one of the stories your Granddaddy is going to tell you, just listen. Because one day, you’ll miss them more than you’ll ever imagine you could.

I know that’s a lot to take in at only 14 years old. But you’re a smart one. 🙂

Oh — and when you have to pick an STD out of a hat in health class, be sure you fish around a bit more before drawing one out. You don’t want to pick anything that rhymes with your name!

Love,

Your future self

 

What advice would you love to send your teenage self? Share in the comments!