Dear Future Me

I never could have imagined this school year ending. In a way I almost expected it to go on forever. Eighth grade has been far from perfect, but it was just starting to be. I have all of my friends around me, always, and never to leave my side. Literally. I leave the circle to tie my shoe on a ledge and turn around to find the circle has repositioned, giving me no space to step away. It's so hard to believe it will be over, and I'll be alone most of the time this summer. I guess the reality of it all is still a little blurry.

Last summer was a lot different. My mind was occupied with much different things. But this summer will be unlike any other. Going back and reading some things I've written back then, I realize how silly I was. But I also realize that I learned a lot from my mistakes and was strengthened by reading my own silly thoughts.

So today, during church, I wrote a letter to me. The future me, at the end of the summer. "Dear Future Me," I wrote, "You're about to start ninth grade. I know change is hard, and different routines take a while to get used to, but I know you'll be fine. I know you can do it," I glanced over my scrawl of words and over to the lingering eyes of my sister. I quickly covered the letter with my hand. I was too late, and foud on her sketchbook was written, "Dear Future Me, Don't forget to buy milk. Love, Janell." I rolled my eyes and continued to write, ignoring both of my nosy siblings on either side of me. I gave myself advice, obviously knowing my weaknesses.

I look forward to reading it in three months. I hope the future me had a great summer.