Open Letter to all Young Adults and Teens

Growing up is one of the hardest things you will have do. In school you are taught many things on many subjects, but there is one thing you must learn yourself that is not in text book form. Growing up. You learn as you grow, and at a young age, you have a lot more of growing, so the learning comes slow. It is your journey thru life, your stepping stone to the future. And at a young age, unfortunately you are not thinking of the journey or the future, you are in the moment. When some of those moments are so dire, you must know that you are not alone. And even tho, the world around you seems to be closing down, it is certainly not true.

Think of yourself and the good that is you, give yourself the honor of looking into the future to see what you can be. Step back from the moment and look around you, you will see the world is moving and going in a direction that you should follow. No matter what some might tell you, your life is worth it, and the moment you are in, is just a passing part of your journey.

When that old so familiar bully appears, think of he/she as a coward, who can only fight the weak. The bully is there because he/she can do it and will. It is up to you to stand tall and ignore the harsh words, turn your back and see them for what they are, a coward hovering over its allowed prey. Once the back is turned the bully will see what you see and retreat.

I can't imagine what its like growing up and not knowing my sexuality. The confusion that must come with this, must be truly overwhelming. And once you find yourself you are taught by our society to be embarrassed by the thought of being gay, lesbian, transgender, bi, different. Well I am here to tell you that its not so. What you feel is real and it is certainly ok. Who you love and what you love, should never matter to anyone but you. Do not feel that you are wrong, love comes in many different ways and it must be embraced when you find it. Honesty must start with you, and then it continues down the line. You will then see, that you, and who you are is the person you should be. Your acceptance will be a welcomed home coming. Suicide is never the answer, its to final, it will not allow you live that journey that you so deserve.

Please do me a favor, in that moment of desperation when you think by ending it all, it will make it all go away.  Find someone to talk with, a stranger, a counselor, a family member, they will help you, they will understand. You might ask, "how does she know this". I have been thru it, in my dire of times as a teen, I have been right where you are. I have tried what your thoughts are bringing you to. And I sought help, from the most unexpected person I would have ever thought. The understanding and comfort I received brought me out of the moment (and the drs working on me). My conscience became alive, and I was me. Scared but me. In hindsight my darkest moment in my life, now seems so small and insignificant I am amazed I gave it so much power over me at the time.

Life is here to enjoy, your journey is just beginning, don't give up on yourself. You are very special, you will bring happiness to all who surround you, you will make  your mark in this world. People will know you and accept you. You will be loved. I can promise you all these wonderful things, because I am here to type this letter to you.