To my thirteen year old self.

I know you are so joyful to have finally escaped the horrific realm of middle school to enter what you think will be fun, high school. You already understand that those who say high school was the best time of their lives are not like you, or rather you get that you are different from them. Keep in mind that doesn't make you better than them.

Working hard is great, I encourage it. Do not put forth so much effort into your work at school or with your many munchkins that you forget to have fun. Live on the wild side every once in a blue moon. Roll someone's car.

We both know friends have always been a problem for you but dressing like an emo kid really isn't going to help you make friends. Keep in mind that black eyeliner isn't for everyone, like yourself, and that avril/ ashley simpson/panic at the disco are not the best role models. I know you look up to them, but it is much better to be your crazy, weird, and wonderful self than to attempt to mold yourself into the perfect punk princess image. You needn't stress so much over what you look like.

Sorry for being a spoil sport, but there won't be any boys in the picture for a loooonnnggg time so you might as well stop wasting your brain energy on crushes. Don't sweat the lack of male attention either, it will only distract you from the important things and besides you know you're wonderful and loved. Thus, you don't need a guy to tell you so.

If I remember correctly, this is the year in which you're struggling a lot with friends, your family, and the church. Friends will enter into your life bringing great love and joy but they will also leave. Understand that sometimes it is good, healthy even, to grow apart from someone and learn to be okay with it. Neither your friends nor your family define who you are. Do what is right and honest to the best of your abilities. When that isn't enough for your family, don't beat yourself up when you can't be apart of their lives anymore. Sometime separation can be for the best. Just like your friends and family, the church is also made up of imperfect, hypocritical humans who have a talent for corrupting the things the touch. Don't stop praying, spending time with God, and questioning the world around you even though you may witness humans' ability to corrupt something good.

You're thirteen, you basically know everything and are on top of the world, right? Ha! Don't be afraid to ask for help, everyone needs help from time to time. Needing help doesn't make you weaker, it is wise of you to recognize when you truly do need assistance and it is courageous to look for it.

You are beloved, never forget. Everything really does work out for you who are fearfully and wonderfully made--everything works out for the best.

Lastly, don't forget: life IS the messy bits.