Dear 16 year old self

Thanks for this lovely contest @cadawg, it's always nice to have the opportunity to share thoughts and reminisce memories of our younger self. I'm sure you'll find many inspiration in many who participated. 😊

Dear Wei,

This is your 31 year old self writing. It's back to school for you, hope you're off to a good start by now since all the beginning of the festivities are finally over. You might be surprised to receive this, but because I love you I thought it'd be a good idea to send you some encouragement from where I'm currently at in life.

I know you're curious about the future at this point in life, and you're doing great with your studies so keep at it. You'll never regret putting all the effort in excelling. I'll keep it a surprise in what course you're going to pick when you enter college, but I'll give you a hint; it's a new course and you'll be glad you chose it! Just some heads up though, papa may not be very happy about it because your college hasn't yet upgraded to the University College status then, so its papers are deem as diploma certs instead of a university cert. Still, don't worry about it. Everything is going to be alright, you'll see 😊 I'll let you in on this, when you enter your adult working life in the future, you'll be surprised at the kind of jobs you'll take up. They're all unique and niche, so you'll have an interesting and colorful resume at hand that you'll be proud of 😉

Ah yes, I know at this point in life you are facing the perils of peer pressure and the feeling of constantly needing to please your friends. Well, don't! You and I both know well that they are toxic. At some point when you do decide to let yourself go and make peace with being 'alone' for sometime, you'll see yourself grow in heart strength. I know loneliness is a real thing, and while it's painful to feel alone, it'll hurt more if you continue letting those who do not love your heart continue abusing it. You don't have to lower yourself just so they'll feel better about themselves. You just let your light shine, never hesitate and don't be afraid to show it. You're awesome just the way you are, and for that I'm proud of you.

You might be wondering whether you'll still be actively attending church when you get to college life, well the answer is yes. Keep on loving on the LORD, trust His heart and hold His hand. He's great at directions. You'll meet a community of lovers who will be great friends to you, and they will be there with you in good times and trying times. When you finally meet them, treasure them and keep them close. They are gems.

Will you eventually meet Mr Right? YESSSS, and as I'm writing this today happens to be our 4th wedding anniversary! You two will make beautiful babies together, and you'll be so glad you married up! He's a great guy, Wei. Kind, understanding, patient and he loves you well! Remember the list you wrote on the qualities you hope to find in your future partner? He fits the bill and even more ❤ So don't worry, and no, it's not the guy you're currently dating. Haha! #sorrynotsorry

Okay, enough with future telling. There are so many things I wish I could tell you but that would take forever, so here are some of the things I wish you'd muster and keep at heart always.

🌷 Wei, don't worry too much. I know life can be scary at times, and while some challenges are tougher than the others, you'll go through it. When you feel like you're in hell, keep walking. You may not know this already, but you're stronger than you think. Cry when you have to, scream it out even when it hurts, but remember that you are strong.
🌷 You are not weird. You're meant to stand out. You're awesome, you're kind, you're understanding, and many may attempt to take advantage of your kindness, be kind anyway. You don't live your life to fit into other people's mold. You have a say on the colors and texture you want on your life's masterpiece. The only opinion that matters most is God's, and His thoughts for you are great, colorful and full of life.
🌷 Never stop learning. Never stop trying. It's never too late to start afresh, even when you feel otherwise. Better late than never. Wanna bake that cake? Go ahead. Wanna read that book? Go grab it. Wanna travel somewhere? Save up and make it happen. Interested in that job? Apply it. Never try, never know. You have nothing to lose. If there ever is any, it's your inhibition and self limiting beliefs.
🌷 While you're at home before you head to college, spend more time with Pa and Ma. Care for them, love on them more. Remind your younger siblings to do the same too 'cause time flies and before you know it you're already far from home and there's only so much time you have to get to spend time with family. Your folks will miss you dearly, so remember to always make time for them.
🌷 Don't make decisions in a haste. Sit on it. Sleep on it. Give yourself some time and write down those thoughts if you have to, 'cause eventually whatever you decide on you will be the one responsible for it.
🌷 It's okay to make mistakes, you may feel guilty sometimes but don't beat yourself up too long and too hard, learn to forgive yourself and others, own up to your mistakes, learn to improve and move on.
🌷 Love yourself. Be kind to yourself. Be gentle to yourself. Be patient with yourself. Hold yourself accountable. Be at peace with yourself. Have fun. Laugh always!

When all else fails, remember that you are dearly loved. Focus on those who truly care, because in the end they are the ones that truly matter.

Lots of love and laughter,

Wei