Conversations with Myself

"Children see magic because they look for it." -Christopher Moore

I think as adults we spend a lot of time reflecting upon our childhoods. I know I do, especially while raising my two young children. I love shaping their little worlds. All I want to do is be a better parent, every day that is the goal that I work towards. I have learnt a lot from my past, after all it is the best teacher.

I have a lot to say to my younger self.

I wish I could go back in time and just hug little me but that’s not how life works. You just live and you learn. That is just how life goes, I'm afraid.

If I could go back and talk to myself as a child this is what I would say:

• You are loved beyond words.
• Take everything one day at a time.
• Don't be in such a hurry to grow up.
• Don’t be afraid of failure. Sometimes it’s just guiding you to where you’re meant to be.
• You are trying too hard to please the people around you.
• You do not have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Put things down. You are only a child once. You don't have to carry the weight of the adult problems in your life.
• Do not waste time trying to date when you're young. There is much more value in friendships than romantic relationships. Plus there will be plenty of time for that later in life.
• Do not pretend to be anyone other than yourself. I spent years hiding who I truly was only to truly discover who I was later in life. You are who you are. Don't let the world change that.
• Do not let yourself be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
• Dream big. Dream often. Dream loudly and without a doubt pursue those dreams. Most people who talk badly about your dreams are ones who have forgotten about their owns.
• Be kind to yourself and to others. Never act with hate because you always feel ugly afterwards.
• Never doubt yourself. You are everything and more to the right people.
• Appreciate life for what it is. There is so much good in the world, you just have to look for it.
• Do not always listen to your parents. They don’t always know what’s right and what’s wrong. You can choose who your role models are.
• Fear of being abandoned by someone can make you hold on too tightly to things not meant for you.
• Do not take rejection so seriously. There are millions of people in the world and you’ll find the right people in your life.
• Stay in school. Get your education. It will be important to you later in life.
• Don't allow yourself to dwell in the past. It teaches you a lesson that's for sure.
• Learn from your mistakes and don't make them again.
• Do not stress out over your appearance. Flowers don't all look the same and we still call them beautiful.
• You words are important. Use them wisely.
• Save your money and use it wisely.
• Travel. Experience the world.

I want to cry after composing this form of letter to my younger self. I think it’s good to reflect on the past but not to dwell on it any longer than you have to. Little me went through so many things that she didn't have to. I want to tell her that everything will be okay in the end. Things fall into place when they are meant to. At least, that is what I believe.

What would you say to your younger self if you could?

Chloe Rose Violet