Happy Tuesday! I’ve been thinking a lot recently about what life was like before today. The things I thought as a freshman in college make me shake my head. All the post really got me thinking about what my expectations were freshman year and where I am now. I was wrong about a lot of things. A LOT of things. Fortunately I’m very relieved I was wrong about my future. With all that in mind I decided to make a list of a few things I would tell my college freshman self.
WHEN IT COMES TO SCHOOL…
WHEN IT COMES TO SCHOOL…
Actually waste your time getting cute for class. I'm not saying, be that fake girl that dolls up on the daily. But a little make-up with a cute outfit never killed anyone. But rather, helped them out--they got married.
Be involved in all activities you're invited to. There isn't one activity that you're too cool for. There are people to know, things to learn how to do, and fun to be had. And I promise you that the more involved you are socially, the happier you are. Even if it takes all sorts of energy, and even if you'd rather stay in bed watching Gilmore Girls.
Don't feel bad about the 3 time major change. Music Education--Business Management--and you finally arrived, Broadcasting/Journalism. You'll realize music is a passion, not a career. Business management was a nice thought. But you'll wake up one day on a random crazy college road trip, and realize where you're true future is. Not only is it a passion, you'll get better at it. You'll actually become obsessed with it. You're not in it for the fame, keep it that way. Say what you mean and what you feel. Thats what is important.
Studying your butt off for the first major test in a class will ALWAYS be worth it. So will completing all those little assignments. When you do well on the first test and do all the little work, it will save you from SO much stress at the end of the semester. You’ll learn this lesson after the first semester, but probably not ever listen to it. And hint--If they have a "over the semester" type of project, actually do it over the semester. Don't wait. You'll hate life, and yourself.
You will always have to sacrifice one of these three things in order to have the other two: enough sleep, fun times with friends, and good grades. Succeeding in college comes down to knowing what two to choose when.
WHEN IT COMES TO FUN…
Your metabolism will never be as good as it is right now. Cherish it and know you will have to work for that body one day. You served a mission, thats great. Keep up with those habits you gained. Walking/Running... eating your fruits and vegetables. Again, never seen this kill someone.
Nothing good happens after 2 am….but a lot of the good stories you will tell years from now will. There is a curfew for a reason, and yes you should try to follow it. Not just because its a rule, but because you're body is tired, and you have 8 am classes. Get your but out of bed.
You are the average of the five people you surround yourself with, choose wisely. You will adopt the habits of your friends, just as they will adopt some of yours. It’s important to take notice and be sure you’re becoming someone you’re proud of. Be the example of the crowd if you have to. And trust me, you'll have to. There will be one shocking day, where you come to realize the people you have/had surrounded yourself....were not great for you. And you'll think, "Why did I do this?" But before you think that, don't forget--Sometimes the Lord puts YOU in THEIR life, for a reason. Figure it out quicker and fulfill it.
WHEN IT COMES TO LOVE…
The guy you grow rather close to, and you can't seem to understand why. Friend. He is a friend. Leave it at that. But trust him, and laugh with him. Get to know him. And be there for him.
Those out of the country boys, that look so good and are a temptation, should be left at that. I don't care how much you love Brasil, I don't care how much you think you like them. They will hurt you. Stay away.
Speaking of “the one,” as of right now, he doesn’t exist. You will date and meet several guys who you think have the potential to be your husband. And to be honest, you could’ve probably ended up with some of the those guys and have been happy. Love is not a feeling or intended for one single person. Love is a verb and a commitment to acting it out regardless of the emotions you are feeling at the time. What makes a person “the one” is the fact you both chose each other to commit to for forever and ever-- eternity.
WHEN IT COMES TO LIFE AND YOUR FUTURE…
Save your money. I know how delicious and easy taco bell and places like that can be. But it ain't working for your body, and your wallet. Realize, that if you saved--you could travel the world and fulfill your dreams in a matter of a year.
Your parents are more often than not going to be right. They know more than you. Think about it. They have raised 5 of you little hell raisers. And the famous, They've been there before.
Just because you serve a mission, does not mean that the after life is all set and stone. And that’s completely ok. You will be broke, struggling to make enough money, and not quite sure how you’re going to make everything you need, but you will be working at a job and you like some of the people there. And you're dad? He is incredible. Be forever grateful for the help he gives you. And the blessing of working so hard before the mission too.
Those 18 months pass by quick. It will be so much fun. Sister Miranda was definitely the best thing that happened to you. And my gosh, that one transfer in Palmas. Maybe you moved 4 times, but you were surrounded by the best. And just remember through out the trials, In every moment you feel regret, disappointment, fear, and pain, know that it is shaping you into the person you are meant to be. Take a deep breath, don’t be so hard on yourself, and know that it will all be okay. Remember that not everyone should be on your list of people to impress. And you won't be able to impress them. You'll actually do the opposite. But thats okay.
Dear Me:
I forgive you. I forgive you for not knowing everything, for not being perfect, for stumbling, being afraid, making mistakes, choosing poorly and not thinking you were worthy of happiness.
You were wrong. You're more than worthy of your affection. I forgive you.
And I am proud of you. You've survived things, that if you'd known they were coming, you'd have given up. But you didn't give up. And, you are here. And that's not nothin'. You're brave, kind, funny, loving, creative, life-long learner, and that means there is always something more. Thank you.
And lastly, whenever you don't know whats happening in your life, just close your eyes, take a deep breath and say: "God I know its your plan, just help me through it."
Yours Truly,
Annalee