Hey younger self!
This is you from the future. I’m 29 years old, 71/2 years in serving a 25 to life sentence in prison. You murdered a mother of two children committed your crime because you were using drugs while you had mental health problems. You’ve tried to kill yourself 13 times since 14 years old. All of your friends you grow up with don’t talk to you anymore. All of this and more problems because you didn’t know how to talk to people, or how to feel good without drugs and alcohol.
Don’t worry though! I know how to help you. Focus on the positive things you do. While you’re young, take care of yourself physically, brush your teeth after every meal, a bright smile can boost your confidence. Shower every day, exercise, and eat right. I know these things seem little and you might want to keep tasting the last brownie you ate or choose junk food over vegetables. Still, these are fundamentals to help you find the good things about yourself. Learn to be passionate about reading things that interest you. Know it’s okay to laugh, don’t be afraid to be uncomfortable. It’s the only way you can grow as a person.
Sometimes it seems everything is pointless. IT IS! And even through life it is pointless. It’s not hopeless when we take care of ourselves, educate ourselves, connect with others. We give life meaning. That’s how you gain purpose and be the best you. Get EXCITED! It’s ok to have fun. It’s not a crime. People are not the villain, including yourself. I know you’ll wonder about the after life, or what comes next. But the only guarantee we have is now. Life is hard work and it pays you when you work hard, and know mistakes are not fatal. Success is not final. It’s the courage to put your best foot forward.
Peace, love, respect.