Dear Younger Self,

You do not have to prove your femininity to anyone, your height, broad shoulders, and shoe size is something you should embrace. So when the next person that mistakes you for a man, don't run to the toilet and cry about it; you know you are are women enough and that is enough.You are still learning but don't think for a second that you should equate yourself to being likable to the male gaze because you are more than that. I know you wanted those curves early but trust me they come late, constrain the thought for male attention because you will be scared when you get it. Don't think for a second that your hello kitty hoodie was not cute because girls your age were wearing tube tops and crop tops, your outfit was fabulous and comfortable. You will live in a patriarchal system where you will be slut-shamed for what you wear and virgin-shamed for the choice you make It’s okay because you will stand for more positive things in life. Have fun enjoy your youth while it lasts before depression slowly creeps at the door. I promise you sex is overrated, even your future self is still a virgin so there is no need to feel pressured into having to be in a relationship. You will find your prince one day. Grow old gracefully they say, you started your period way before anyone in your class and you felt alone but you are not alone, you are gonna be one strong woman, Surrounding yourself with many other strong women.

From your Future self x

- Anonymous

Dear me,

I don't pretend to know it all but age brings some wisdom

However we never stop learning.

Be prepared to change with the times.

To the very young me.

Believe in yourself, have confidence in your own ability.

Do not believe everything you are told by others.

Listen to, but do not take to heart, all criticism.

Take note of your own inner voice and follow its lead.

Nurture your love of animals and plants, it will never leave you.

To the slightly older me.

Do not over pluck your eyebrows, they won't grow back.

I am glad you enjoyed college life and music.

I am glad you continued to study horticulture and agriculture.

Don't under value yourself.

Perhaps you could have made better choices in boyfriends.

To the even older me.

Keep up the exercise even when you are fed up with it.

Make more effort to stay in touch with friends from the past.

Always find a reason to get up in the morning, find something you will look forward to.

Try not to be stuck in a time warp, situations change. Keep travelling.

To me in the future

Probably best not to know what the future holds. Keep it as a surprise, every day is a bonus!

-Yvonne