35

Tomorrow I turn 35.  So, thus far, I’ve outlived Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, and Jesus. Not necessarily in that order, but probably so.  Today I was catching up on some blogs that I frequent, and one I love was linked to another – a blog where the writer asked women to submit letters to their 20 year old selves.  How intriguing this was to me – how fascinating (and scary)!  And it inspired me so much that I present you with this:

Dear 20-year-old Kate,

All that searching you’re doing right now?  The wondering who you really are and where you belong?  Get used to it.  Apparently it’s ingrained in who you are, and it’s something you’ll continue to do well beyond your angsty teens and twenties.  But, the worry that goes along with that searching? Good Lord, girl. Drop it and enjoy life. Grab it by the balls and don’t look back because one day, the worrying will envelope so much more than just YOU. 

The body that you look in the mirror and scoff at? It’s amazing. Wear the short dress and wear the sting bikini while you can.  That body will one day bear your children and become something much different, but right now? It’s hot.  Keep dancing as much as you can.  Don’t quit because some boy wants to spend more time with you and don’t give up the thought that you might someday dance in New York.  Stop telling yourself it’s not worth pursuing that dream.  Don't sell yourself short.

The boy who makes you crazy with emotions you can’t explain? One day you will vaguely remember why he made you feel that way.  Don’t sacrifice your plans for ANYONE…no matter how important the reason seems at the time. In the end, you will only have yourself, so whatever path you choose, make sure it’s something you’re happy with. Someday you will have daughters of your own and you will no doubt have to watch them go through these same emotions. When that happens, please try to remember how it felt to be 22; it could be the best gift you could ever give them. 

Wash your face more. Drink more water.  Don’t smoke so much.  Stop and enjoy the little moments more often. Don’t ever look back.

Love,

35-year-old Kate