A friend posted a PSA on her Facebook wall the other day titled, "Dear 16-year-old Me." It focused on individuals who had messages for their younger selves, ultimately bringing to light the tragedy of skin cancer (melanoma). I, in turn, posted it on my Facebook "wall" because I was so moved by the piece. Plus, my thinking was (is), that if it made one person pay closer attention to something that wasn't quite feeling "right," -- whether it is something "off" in your skin, or "off" in your general well being -- then it was well worth the post.
I haven't been able to get the PSA out of my mind...mostly because a few days later, during a conversation with my sister, we were talking about what we would tell ourselves if our 40-something selves (present-day self) could travel back in time and chat with our younger (20-something) selves. That particular conversation focused a lot on telling myself to save my money and not buy that ridiculous pair of parachute pants at The Limited...but that is another story (perhaps for another blog!) But it did get me to thinking in regards to my recent weight loss and walking this current path I am on...is there anything that I would like to go back in time and tell my 16-year-old self?
During a family dinner a few weeks ago, Libby asked me if there were anything I regretted, anything that I would go back in time and correct in my life if I could. The truth is, I have made so many mistakes on this life journey that I don't even count anymore...but my belief is that regrets are lessons not learned (ok: so I also read that somewhere..but it resonated!)...so I really don't have any regrets, and I can honestly say I don't believe in regrets.
What I do believe is that all of those mistakes that we make along the way are what help to build the foundation -- along with the right choices too, of course! -- for who and what I am today. And I believe that those "mistakes" can actually be drawn upon now (or maybe later) to possibly help someone else who may need some guidance. If I'm lucky, maybe I've been in a similar situation, and maybe I can shed some light on the "right" direction to go...So, ultimately, no, I wouldn't go back and change anything, even if I were given that magical opportunity.
However, with all of this said, there are a few things I would like to go back and let my 16-year-old self know. Just to let them sit and simmer in her consciousness, or perhaps tap into them when she needs them. So, here goes:
Dear 16-year-old Me:
First, I want you to know that you are beautiful. I know you don't always feel it, but the truth is, you are truly an extraordinary human being. I know that there are things that you would change about your physical appearance (no, your hair is never going to be Casey's color...and no, it's not ever going to be straight...no matter what you do to it!), but you are beautiful.
Second, I want you to know that you are really smart. I will grant you that you are probably *not* ever going to be a math genius, but you are a really good writer, and you have a true talent for helping people to see things in a way they haven't even thought of looking at things yet.
I would also like for you to know that although exercise is a giant pain in your butt, and you think there are tons of other, more fun things to do...go ahead and get on that treadmill/bike/mini-trampoline (heck! do Mom's Jane Fonda workout tapes!), and work up a sweat. Do this every day. Do not miss a day. Trust me when I tell you, you will thank me later!
Remember that eating is to be enjoyed. If you have a bite of chocolate souffle, savor it. Good food actually does not come along as often as you'd think...there are a lot of "meh" foods out there...but truly delicious, home-made, savor-worthy food...it really doesn't come around often. And I happen to know that that chocolate souffle is worth every single delicious bite.
And, 16-year-old Me? Do me a favor, would you? If you are happy, just go ahead and be happy. If you are sad, go ahead and be sad. Do not use that "meh" food to make the happy or the sad any less than it is. Feel it, experience it, and then LET IT GO. Don't keep it. Feel it, and then let it go. It's okay...I can assure you: there are more happy and sad things coming, and some of them will make you happier and more sad than you can even imagine right now.
Lastly, Me, go ahead and BE YOURSELF. Whoever you are, whatever you are...just BE. Because you know what?
You are amazing.
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