Dear Younger Me

Dear younger me,

Hi.
First off, that woman that you call mom. She will prove to be the strongest woman in the world. Trust in her. Even when it's hard to, know that you'll understand and appreciate all of her decisions later in life.

One day you're going to have a younger brother. Love him. Protect him. Not just physically, but mentally. Don't ever let the bond between you falter. Because if it does, it will slowly kill you inside.

You are going to be blessed with opportunities that some can't even fathom. Cherish those times and enjoy every minute of it. And when it feels like your peak is long gone, and people start doubting you, just return to your safe place... your mind. You know how to make anything you fight for happen. Don't let anyone ever tell you otherwise.

You will pick up new talents faster than you can keep track. But even though they come easy, don't take them for granted. Work hard. Your work ethic will be your defining trait.

Friends... You're going to go through plenty of those. Many that you will think will be there forever. ...They won't. But when it comes to long term friends, there are the kinds that you think will never leave your side, and then the ones that you never even think about losing because your side is their side. Hold on to those. You will gain a couple of friends that will become your additional brothers. You'll know it when it happens.

Girls... Try, for me, just try to approach girls/women with the same confidence that you have in your trades of choice. In this case... Finally let yourself live outside of your head. Don't over think everything. But when you feel something strong in your gut... stand true to it. Your gut instinct is one that people will grow to admire and respect. You do the same.

Finally... There's nothing wrong with being the "good guy". There is nothing wrong with the morals that you will build for yourself. You are destined to affect lives and touch the masses. ...Get ready. And try to sleep as much as you can now!

Live, love & learn.

You. Me. Us.