A Checklist For My Teenage Self

February 7th:

Dear Cher,
    Keep these things in mind.  They may do you good.

1.  You. Aren't. Enough... but Christ in you is.
2.  You are NOT "done" nor is this "the worst day ever".  Just don't even say it.
3.  All those people you think are soooo talented and gifted... they once took a chance.  You can, too.
4.  Be kind to the outcasts because one day, when you are adults, you'll run into them and they'll remember you as the only person in school that was ever nice to them and it will mean the world to you both.
5.  Eat and don't feel guilty about it.  Sheesh!
6.  Tell your family how much they mean to you and don't expect them to "just know it".
7.  Embrace your uniqueness and allow yourself to think and be different.  Practice your awesomeness.
8.  You aren't supposed to reach your pinnacle of success in high school so just breathe and carry on.  Stop worrying about perfection and just do your best.
9.  Enjoy being single.  It doesn't mean you are lacking something.  It just indicates you are meant for better than what's available at the moment.
10.  Don't wait until you are an adult to learn to be a good steward of your time, talents, money, etc.
11.  Stop hating your hair, your skin, your body, your life.  You were wonderfully made and loved deeply. You are beautiful!
12.  Knock the chip off your shoulder and relax.  Who wants to carry that weight? Count your blessings.
13.  Enjoy every experience.  Look for the good, the fun, the opportunities.  Each day you wake up means there must be something good you are supposed to do.  Look for it.
14.  Be consistently YOU with everyone and in every situation.
15.  Dream it, make plans, but be flexible if it doesn't happen.
16.  Work hard.  Don't give half of nothing.  Give all of everything.
17.  Appreciate more. Complain less.
18.  Don't wait to let God be in charge of it all.
19.  Don't let negativity breathe your air.  It'll suck your joy.
20.  Listen to the ones who've "been there, done that" and learn from them.