To the past,
I know you’re going through a lot of emotions right now which is why I won’t ask how you’re feeling. You need someone to understand you. I do. I have felt those emotions already, I know you. Someday you’ll understand me too. Hopefully you won’t feel these emotions, hopefully you’ll understand what I tell you and you’ll be able to reflect and grow on it. I know it feels like a hard time right now. You feel behind, left out and overwhelmed. You’re going through changes with friends, school environment and mostly with your feelings and knowledge. Being the first generation in school in the U.S is such a new thing for you and our parents. Middle school is different, and most importantly so is highschool. It’s hard not having someone to talk to about this, about all your questions. Everyone around you is so ahead, they know what they want. They know what highschool they are striving to go to. They know all about the process and tests and you feel behind. You’re indecisive and I still am. And I want to say it’s fine, you’re going to find something you want in highschool. You have time and you’re going to achieve big things. Be proud of yourself, for how far you’ve come and what you have and will do.
You have also matured so much in such little time. You have reflected on your past and childhood. You are trying to understand what has been said to you, what could’ve been and how much you’ve missed out on. Maybe you’ve missed out on the experience of having Spongebob and Monster High, pets and siblings in your childhood unlike others. You’re upset that your childhood feels dull and lonely. This has come with maturing and forming strong opinions on who and what is going on around you. You’ve taken a role as the ‘mom’ of the group. It isn’t bad but you’re missing out on what fun you can have. You can balance it, both being responsible and being included in the fun. You can still experience that childhood fun and excitement. Learn to balance your home and school life. Set up a schedule, don’t only be responsible with your friends. I believe in you. Don’t get stuck dwelling in the future or the past. Enjoy what you have now.
We still have our ups and downs when it comes to relationships. You are a good friend but you can become a better one. Don’t isolate yourself from others, it’s okay to have those moments to yourself. But you can’t always think like that. You have people around you, build connections, try to text everyone at least twice a week. Don’t wait until you’re in eighth grade to build and strengthen the bonds you could’ve had with people you know and grew up with. You’re lucky to be a part of such a small school community where everyone knows each other. Teachers have seen you grow up and will see you accomplish and teach you great things. If you think you’re alone, you will only throw yourself deeper into that hole and you will only isolate yourself more. You have people who care about you, hopefully you realize that. Don’t take advantage of that support you will have. Don’t think that just because you have a past and close connection with certain friends, you can slack off in building and maintaining those relationships. Everyone will make mistakes, not just you, and you have to learn to talk about your feelings with not only your friends but your parents too. It’s okay to ask for help, you don’t have to fear your private thoughts and feelings being told to your parents by an outsider. In the end, it’s your decision to decide if you want to talk to someone about your wellbeing. It works out okay, don’t be afraid to speak the truth.
Your friends, peers and family respect, admire and love you. Don’t forget that.
Take care,
Your future
Dania Perez-Cux – DePaul College Prep – DMSF Class of 2028
Photo by Dania