A Letter to My 13-year old Self

Kenisha Birwadkar
FYBCOM

Dear 13 year old Kenisha, wishing you a very happy birthday. I am five years in the future, so I am assuring you that your year ahead is all set to be incredible and fun. I know that you are very excited about this day. You are now, officially, a teenager. I know that you are looking gorgeous in that dress with red flowers and white shoes. Your friends in school would have devoured the pasta that you carried to school for your birthday. Ranjita Teacher would have made you feel exceedingly special throughout your day at school. Your day would be full of wishes and blessings from friends and family. But let me tell you one thing, by growing a year older, you need to grow more responsible. There are going to be many new experiences, many new friends and new perspectives to explore. You are just at the start of your teenage life, probably the first year as a teenager won't teach you much, but over a period of five years when you will be 18, you will learn and explore the unexplored, you will start expecting what is unexpected for you today. I am no different from you. I am only a slightly more mature version of you. As I am on the other side of this span of five years, I have a message for you.

Kenisha, you need to be in charge of your life and decisions. Even after five years when you will be 18, you won't be able to make big decisions without your parents, but the smaller ones can be made. Obviously, mummy and daddy will always be there to correct, guide and support you but you need to be the first one to think of whether you want to do something or not.

There is one more piece of advice for you. Start pondering upon where you see yourself in the future. This idea will enable you to choose your career. Though you have streamlined your thoughts on business and commerce, it will be a cherry on top if you surf the internet to know more about the top commerce colleges and the potential careers present in the field of your choice.

Also, through the next few years, as you will be at the climax of your teenage life, you will face a lot of uncertainty and self-doubt. Mark my words, you are capable of conquering everything that you want. The minute you doubt your ability and potential, you are taking a step backwards. Don't pull yourself back, don't hesitate and never ask the question "Will I be able to do this?" Instead, reassure yourself that "I can and I will be able to do this." Don't give up on anything. Set a goal for yourself and work every day towards that target. There are bound to be some dull days but they will be followed by brighter ones. Keep yourself going through the lows and enjoy the highs. Give your best every time and don't contemplate the result or the outcome. When you are consistent, determined, confident and enjoying the process you will surely achieve your goals. Also, don't compare your life to someone else's. Bear in mind always, that you are unique.

There is one more piece of advice for you dear. Spend as much time as you can with Mamma (your grandmother). Make the last 8 months that she has had with you, dad and mom very special. Just keep her happy by providing her with all that she wants. She is going to be hale and hearty until her last few weeks. She will continue making lemon water, sandwiches and that lovely chicken soup for you till the very end. Just live the moments because trust me, you will miss every bit of it when she is no more.

Now, it is time for me to go. I can't reveal every moment of your future. There needs to be some suspense, isn't it? Let me promise you that your future holds a lot of surprises that will unfurl at the appropriate time. Grab every opportunity that knocks at your door. Keep believing in yourself and giving your 100% in every task that you have taken up and everything will be alright. Start a new day with a broad smile and never let your optimism die down. Let me remind you that you are surrounded by the best bunch of people at home and school. You are eagerly waiting to go to college but school life, in which you are, will always be a paradise. College life has its own fun and frolic. One more thing before I sign off, colleges in movies contrast reality. 'Student of the year' is an exaggerated version of college. In reality, the college will be all about new friends, experiences and mischief. There are going to be plenty of fests and events in college which will shape your character and build your personality. Keep pushing your limits, little girl; the sky's the limit. Wishing you a spectacular birthday and an even dynamic life ahead.