Little one, where are you now?
You’re probably next to the seashore right now, always trying to catch the sunset every day, or chasing the ethereal glow of fireflies under the night sky? Oh, how I wish I could give you a big embrace and whisper secrets to you about a future you’re not ready for. I wish I could tell you that maturing isn’t the beautiful picture we envisioned. It’s a battleground where dreams can break like glass and laughter frequently leads to sorrow.
When I look back at you, my younger self, my heart hurts. Your strength will be put to the test in unexpected ways along life’s journey. It’s going to be tough, really tough. Take comfort in the tiniest spark of optimism. Don’t beat yourself up too much. Hold on to hope, even if it’s just a tiny spark. It’s like that little flame in a dark room; it might be small, but it’s all you’ve got.
We’ve come too far to quit now, right? I wish I had lived more recklessly when I was younger. Before the harshness of the world dulls your sparkle, soak up every bit of happiness. Recall that even in the face of cruelty, you always have the option to choose kindness. Treat yourself with kindness, and allow that compassion to spill over to everyone you come into contact with.
Younger me, please go easy on yourself. This is new to you, too. This is your first time living, too. It’s tough, I know. You’ll have days when you feel like you’re drowning, but trust me, you’ll find a way to swim. Remember, you’re your own biggest supporter. You’ve got this.
Don’t let the harsh standards of the outside world make you less bright. Regardless of the hue of your eyes or the form of your laugh, your inner beauty is evident. You are an immeasurable treasure and an immeasurable gift with a golden heart. You will be my favorite child for eternity.
I won’t let the child inside me die. No matter how grown up I get, no matter where life takes me, that part of me will always be there. I’ll find a way to heal the hurt child inside. I promise.
“Did we succeed?” Those big, curious eyes of yours look at me, searching for something I can’t quite give. I want to say yes, everything will be okay, but the truth is, I don’t know. A part of me feels like I’m failing you, promising answers that might never come. For now, I can only hope that someday, looking back, we’ll both agree that we made it through.