This is a repost from 2009 while a Therapist at Imagine Hope Counseling Group. We wrote letters to our younger selves. What do you wish you could say to your younger self?
Dear Younger Natalie,
You are BEAUTIFUL! Just the way you are!
Kids can be so cruel. They say things to hurt- sometimes out of jealousy, fear, or just to make themselves feel better. I’m so sorry they have made fun of you and called you names about your weight. It’s ok to be sad about that and ok to cry. Let it out!
But after you let it out, I’m going to tell you something, girl! What they say is not truth. The truth is you are beautiful, no matter what size you are, whether you wear designer clothes or not, and regardless of who likes you or who you are friends with. YOU are beautiful because YOU are the only YOU in this world and God made you just as you are.
That’s easier said than done, isn’t it? It’s hard not to think of how you look on the outside. All of us judge each other by the outside at first. But your heart, your character, and your spirit are what you are truly measured by. And you have such a good heart, character, and personality. Don’t forget that.
So when the kids make fun of you, try to see them for who they really are-
1. Not your real friends
2. Hurting people with their own problems
Then let them go or stay away from them if possible.
You know what else- DON’T GIVE UP! Right now you don’t feel good about yourself because of the negative around you. Because you don’t feel good about yourself, you give up on things way too easily. If one person says you are too short to play volleyball or to play basketball, you believe them and give up! Keep trying and get help with the stuff you really like and want to do. Keep practicing that piano everyday and singing like an angel. Don’t. Give. Up.
One day this will make so much sense.
You are beautiful,
Older Natalie