Dear younger me, there's a lot that you don't know. A lot you're pretty sure you understand,

but couldn't possibly wrap your hands around. Because the most important things in life, the things that you'll remember, they're the very

things that seem like footnotes in your story.

Background noise, hidden in plain view.

So younger me, hear me out because time, time goes by quickly.

And we only get one opportunity to do this dance, one chance to do this thing right.

Younger me, when you wake up, be thankful for the shoes on your feet, the house you live in, the life you lead.

Because if all you do is focus on what you don't have or the next milestone, happiness becomes a mirage.

Younger me, the world as you know it isn't something that was destined to be.

It's here because people no smarter than you have the courage to build it. Never be scared to challenge what is.

This place will be better because of it.

And younger me, it will always be easier to play it safe, to stay comfortable, but I want you to understand something.

That's not where you'll find the good stuff. If you don't take chances, you'll spend your time

wondering what could have been. Younger me, believe in your greatness. This world can be a tough place,

and if you don't believe in yourself, no one will do it for you. No one will hand you the sky. Earn excellence every day. It's there, I promise.

Younger me, don't get distracted by the small stuff, the little things that so easily consume our energy

and emotions, don't lose sight of who you are and what means the most to you.

Everything else washes away.

Younger me, you didn't have all the answers, but somehow you were exactly what I needed

you to be.

You created a map.

You showed that change can't happen until one falls victim to life's imperfections.

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