Day 4: Sweet Sixteen

There are so many things that I can think of that I would love to go back and tell my sixteen year old self. When I first think of what to say, I think of warnings; warnings that could stop some of the biggest fits of heartache I've yet encountered. But I don't want to stop them, because the strength I gained, and the wisdom I acquired from those moments, are pivotal to who I am today. Still, I could have fared with a small warning or two, so here goes.

1. You know who you are, let her shine.
2. Keep your scripture study habits, they make such a difference.
3. Boys and dates are not the world, there's plenty of time for that.
4. Serve others.
5. Have faith in your family, everything will be alright.
6. You have A.D.D. , medicate it.
7. Hold on to the good friendships that you have, and when others hurt you, consider it an opportunity to start anew with even better friends.
8. Keep moving forward.
9. Promise yourself to work hard in college.
10. Be prepared for heartbreak. He's not the one.

Day 3: The old folks and I

My relationship with my parents....
My mom is the best person I've ever known. She also happens to misunderstand me more than ever these days. I still cuddle with her, and sit on her lap, the way she always wanted to with her mom. But she is on my case if I ever seek to give her guidance. There is a lot of role confusion to say the least. Even with distress and tension, I love her more than words. I wish to be more like her. Her biggest weakness, is that she gives too much to others and not enough to herself.

With my father, things are better than they've been in a very long time. He's come through some really hard trials, and put himself in a place where we can communicate and bond. He's trying harder than ever to connect with me. He sends me packages in the mail, and will give me anything his small amounts of money will permit. I love him very much, and am proud of how far he's come.