This letter does not need to go out to any specific age in my past, just to my past as a whole. But I’ll tell you right now, this letter is going to be chock full of clichés and ‘self-help book’ inspired quotes, but they are still applicable to life.
The first bit of advice I’d like to give you, younger me, is quite simple in foundation yet extremely pertinent in hindsight….don’t let people take advantage of you, and don’t take advantage of them. Open up, don’t stay in your shell for so long that when the gates open you start sprinting. Life isn’t a game of catch-up. People are going to like you and dislike you no matter what, so at least make sure it’s for the right reasons. Don’t go out of your way for people too often, because they will take advantage...even if they don’t realize it. The best intentions can always produce the worst results.
In love, if you have the upper-hand, enjoy it. Do not flaunt it, or toy with it. And if it’s not love, and it’s just convenience, don’t stick with it. Contrary to societal upbringing, you are not defined by a significant other or a social status. You are defined by moments, moments you make ‘right’ decisions that make you happy. Never let anyone hold you back. If you get a red flag from someone, acknowledge it and set it aside; if it continues to re-appear, it’s time to cut ties. Don’t ever be afraid that you are not good enough to be with someone; if the situation isn’t right then they’re not good enough for you. But there are always going to be situations worth fighting for. The right person may not be found at the right time; adjust to it. If you think they’re worth fighting for, then fight away…eventually, if it’s meant to be it will.
Don’t be afraid to burn bridges. Life is about constant moving…and moving forward. Take a minute to slow down for a while. Listen to the fog horns, sit on the jetty, you won’t be there for as long as you think. But don’t return to things. If someone/something is in the past..there’s a reason. Leave ‘em and move on. . . but you never have a problem with that.
If you’re in a situation, there is always a way out. God will show you a way, take it or don’t, there’ll always be another way to better things. Everyone makes mistakes and do things they’re not proud of. Get over it. Don’t do it again, learn from it, move on. Shit happens. That’s it.
Everything works out because you make it work out. That’s it. Life is more beautiful than any conception you could ever imagine. The plan you’re making for yourself right now, Med-school , California
