If I could write a letter to me...

Dear 17-year-old Megan,

Breathe. 

You don’t need to have everything figured out. Stop focusing on the destination and enjoy the journey. Smile. Have fun.

Believe it or not, you WILL miss being 17. 

Don’t worry about what other people think. Period. Don’t think the worst of others, either. Take care of yourself.

Be kind to your parents. Even when they drive you crazy.  They have more on their plate than you realize. And they are putting up with you.

When you pick a college major, pick one that interests you. It truly won’t matter in the long run. Take your parents’ advice into consideration, but make your own decision.

Don’t worry about the plan you have for your life - it won’t happen that way anyway. And when it doesn’t go your way, realize that there is a greater reason. Look for what you can learn.

Take risks, but don't be reckless. 

Don’t make decisions based on money. It won’t make you happy.  

Pray every day. You’ll go through good times and bad, and at times faith will be your only constant.

Remember where you came from. Call Oma. Call your parents, and your brothers.  Don’t end a conversation without telling them you love them. 

Have a creative outlet. Keep writing. 

Stop criticizing yourself. You are beautiful.

Good things headed your way. There will be hard times too. Soak up every experience - together they will make you into the person you are meant to be. 

Love, Me