Conversations With My 13 Year Old Self

A young( & much littler than 13 year old) me.

Hello there lovelies,

I was looking through one of my old online journals when I found this - a letter to myself at 13, that I wrote in 2008. While now I would probably add some more practical things to this letter (such as, dude, learn how to cook and iron BEFORE you leave home!), I think that this would have been more valuable knowledge.

Dear little Stacey,

You are beautiful. No matter what she says, you're beautiful. And most especially, no matter what he says, you are beautiful. One day there will be someone who loves you, and appreciates you, just as you are. That's right, you won't have to change. And you don't have to change. One day, someone will help you pick up the pieces, and finally mend. You won't have to worry about the things you've done, because they'll understand. You don't have to compromise your own values and beliefs, because they will understand. You don't need to drown in that bottle, or pick up that joint to numb the feelings that you're feeling, because they will understand. You don't need to be afraid of your body, your sexuality or your desires, because they will understand. Most importantly, you don't need to worry about being abandoned, because they will understand. You don't need to lose weight, or dress like a slut, or put on make-up, because they'll think you're more beautiful as you.

I know that there's things happening to you, and things that will happen to you that I can't fix, or change. But just know, eventually they will be reconciled. Eventually you won't feel like you're alone in a crowded room. I know that there's nothing I can say to convince you that you're perfect, and you're loved, and one day you'll be loved the way you've always wanted to be, but I know that it's true.

The only one holding you back is you.

Love, big Stacey.

How about you lovelies? What would you tell your younger self if you had the chance? Are there things that you wish you had have known sooner? No matter how bad the journey was, I'm glad that I finally learnt the things that I wish I had known all along.

Until next time, xo.