To the girl I used to be,You are so full of life and joyful. Don't lose that. You're going to take some hard knocks. You'll be too young, but no age is old enough for them. The point is you can't let them keep you down. You've got to get back up and keep going.
You're a 'glass half full' kinda person. Maybe people think you're naive. Maybe you are. But that's okay. Be naive. Find the good in your situations and find the good in others. Don't search for the negative or wonder what others are doing, but focus on yourself and how you can grow.
People change. You might have to let go... but always forgive because you don't have room to let bitterness grow.
You're going to change, too. Life changes you, but let those changes grow into something good.
Most importantly, keep the faith. Trust the Maker of All Things who knows you thoroughly. He is the source of your hope. He has a purpose for your life. Remember, there will be disappointments, suffering, pain you never thought you would bear, but you will bear it because HE will bear it for you, just like HE did on the cross so many years ago.
It's a process. Learn to let go. Learn to love more. Know that you have to be willing to change. You know you aren't perfect and sometimes you're going to really dislike yourself, but keep moving, keep working, and remember: Know matter what happens, you have the joy of Christ.
I miss you, sometimes, and I really really wish I could be you again. Could feel free to laugh loudly and be crazy once in a while and stay up to late hours talking and singing loudly. Maybe I can, but more importantly, maybe you will become someone who is compassionate, bold, creative, and truly unique.
You aren't defined by others. The only expectations that matter on the ones the Lord has for you, so keep after Him. Chase him with all that is within you, chase Him harder, and find Him.
Yours,
Bethany
