A Letter to my Forty Year Old Self

Dear Allison,
   
Do you remember in high school, when your counselor said that sixteen year old Allison had to think

about what forty year old Allison would want? It seems to me that's a particularly stupid piece of

advise for a teenager. What sixteen year old thinks that far ahead? Do you think about us at sixteen?

Would she be happy with where you are not?

     I have so many questions for you, questions more than anything. Are you happy? Or have you

only settled? Please don't tell me you settled. Content is not the same as happy. I'm scared that one

day I'll wake up from content and wonder what the hell happened.

     So, my hopes for you. I hope that you are in an amazing, beautiful, romantic relationship. I hope

you are surrounded by family, and dogs, of course! I hope that you travel, and often. I hope you are

happy and that you are at peace.
                             
                                                  Love,
 
                                                   your Twenty Nine Year Old Self

A Letter to my Sixteen Year Old Self

Dear Allison
   
     Don't listen to them. They will tell you to be practical, to envision what your older self would want or need.

Let me tell you something; she will be bitter and cynical just like them. Do what makes you

happy. Don't be stupid, don't do something harmful or illegal. Follow your dreams. It may never be

too late, but don't waste these years, don't waste your time like that.

     Also, you are so much better at essay writing than you give yourself credit. Don't compare

yourself to others. Just because you don't worship Ginsberg or think The Catcher in the Rye is the

best novel in the world doesn't mean that you are bad at English. If you need help ask for it, don't be

afraid of other peoples reaction. It doesn't have to be perfect the first time and you don't have to have

your homework done before you get home.

     Flash cards are your friend, stick with French and voice lessons. If it gives you joy don't stop.
                                             
                                                        Be Brave.
                                                                  Love
                                                                      your 29 year old self