Hey you!

Yeah, you.

You in the mirror.

You from a few years ago.

I have a few things to share.

Things you'll want to hear.

Things I wish I'd known

Before I grew up,

Before I stumbled,

Before I fell.

Please listen closely,

You'll wish you had.

 

So here you go:

 

First, don't be afraid to be yourself.

I know, cliche.

But here's the secret:

Your true friends will want to know you

The real you.

The you that wakes up in the morning.

The real you.

The you that snorts when you laugh.

The real you.

The you that sings just a little too loud.

The real you.

That's the you that your friends want to know.

And they'll love every part of you.

 

Second, don't be afraid to try...

Sometimes even fail.

It's okay.

One bad grade does not define you.

Try new things.

Eat weird foods.

Try new things.

Learn an instrument.

Try new things.

Take up a new hobby.

Try new things.

Take a leadership position.

You'll grow so much.

 

Third, don't neglect your art.

It's part of what makes you YOU.

The pencil will work FOR you.

So pick it up!

Try new colors.

Pick up the crayons.

Try new colors.

Sketch on that white sheet.

Try new colors.

Dip into the paint.

Try new colors.

Put your hand to the page.

You'll be rewarded for your efforts.

 

And finally, live fearless!

Take risks.

(But don't be stupid!)

Write your own story.

Make new friends.

Write your own story.

Stay up late, get up early.

Write your own story.

Journal late into the night.

Write your own story.

Make memories.

You won't regret it.

 

Sincerely, 

Me, just a few years older

 

P.S. - You're beautiful!