Hey Cakes, so this will be the first post where I share some of my unsolicited opinions. I’ll probably reread this myself and roll my eyes, so don’t worry if you do the same.
I wanted to start off with what I think is one of the most important building blocks to being happy, and that’s just being yourself. Letting yourself say what you really think, like what you really like, and pursue who you really want to be is a big part of having a fulfilling life.
You’re going to find as you get older that there is an exhausting amount of pressure to be a certain way. It might be your appearance, things you’re supposed to say, people you’re supposed to hangout with, etc. Here’s the truth, you’re not supposed to be, do, or say anything. All of those “rules” are entirely made up, sometimes by others, and sometimes you might be imagining them yourself. I think girls have it harder than guys too, but look up to your mom, she’s a great example of being a genuine, unique, amazing person.
Trying to act a certain way all the time is such an effort. Notice that about people you meet, and see how unsatisfied they are living their life that way. There’s an emptiness to it. Don’t let them draw you into the madness. Keeping track of hollow metrics like clothes, money, popularity, how you look on social media, etc. is just a rabbit hole with no reward at the bottom.
Sure, there’s a time and place for certain topics, and you need to find the line between being respectful and just blurting out whatever thought crosses your mind or wearing literally whatever you want regardless of the situation. Besides that, just be you and do what makes you happy. As long as you’re not hurting yourself or anyone else in the process you’re going to find this a much easier and more satisfying way to live.
No matter what you end up doing or who you want to be, there are two things I know for sure. One, I promise you’ll be happier in the long run by just doing you. Two, your mom and I are going to love and support you and be proud of you no matter what. I want so badly for you to have a happy and fulfilling life, and I know you can do it by just being yourself.
Ok, now that that’s over with listen to this laugh. This is you and your mom, she was putting toys in her mouth and blowing them out at you, and you found it hilarious. I feel like I’ve waited 38 years just to hear you laugh. I wonder if you’ll ever understand how happy you make me and your mom, I love you like crazy!
Dear Molly 