Dear me,
Looking back at my 7th and 8th grade years I know that there were difficult moments to cope with but it did shift into a better time in my life which is now where I am at. Yes, there were confusing and complex moments that messed with your brain but trust me there is more out there to discover. There were instances when I felt that the whole world had turned upside down and no one was there for me but in fact there were many people there supporting me. The moments in which I passed through anxiety attacks I felt vulnerable and really alone, I would often find myself shaking.Sometimes we do not see things and we are so stuck in this little box where you shut yourself from those around you but that is just part of healing from something in the past. Although school seems like nothing to worry about, there were points in time where anxiety kicked in but I found myself getting up slowly. At times people often view themselves very poorly, just like you did, but being able to find something or someone that will be there to help you view yourself positively is vital. It is okay to think that there will never be a positive outcome to your problems because eventually you’ll be able to find motivation within yourself. I feel a sense of gratitude towards my family, mostly my sister and cousin since they always told me that I should wait patiently for things to come, to ask for help, continue to learn, and to follow the path that I am truly passionate about. Following a path that will bring a smile to your face is necessary, in fact it does take time to realize that you really are doing something that could change you and your mindset. It is never too late to ask for help if things do not feel like you, be patient with yourself, and do not keep it bottled up.
Hey! I know this might be difficult to remember since you’re older now, you have more responsibilities, or you might not even care but please just take a few moments to read this. I am currently 14 years old and to be completely honest and transparent I am afraid of what could come along my way. I am terrified to see where I might end up or to see how life has shaped me. I do not really want to think too deeply into my worries but so far life has been good. As of now my life has been great, although I am afraid to start high school I took a piece of advice to not regret anything, to take the chances and opportunities given. I will do my best as I shift into high school to become the best version of myself but, I see the way I acted before compared to now, I do see a large improvement in my mental state. When one becomes aware of what could come, things will be different since it is coming from someone in the past, yourself. If you want to continue, do not reject any opportunity that comes along your way. Chase those dreams, pursue them, don’t let them fall apart for no particular reason. It might sound weird to you but be the change, if you want to become the doctor you always talked about being, do it! Don’t fall behind, take me to wondrous places because it is never too late to discover more about your interests. If it seems that at the moment there is nothing that interests you just wait to see where life takes you. Be around diverse groups to discover what you are truly passionate about. Although life may seem pretty difficult now or society seems different it does not mean you need to change yourself or your personality for others. Push yourself to strive and balance life, and manage your time wisely while taking breaks to not become overwhelmed. Now go on, take my advice, and do not be afraid to try new things.
Sincerely,
Yourself
Armani Hernandez – Nazareth Academy – DMSF Class of 2030
Photo Credit: Steele, Frederic Dorr – Library of Congress