To my old self

Dear Old Self, 

If only you would've known what laid ahead of you. 

If only you would've known that misery ends like the sun rises from a stormy night.

If only you woud've known that of all the imperfections of the world, you are perfect just the way you are.

If only you could've seen that the darkness of your skin and the dark of your eyes reflected the sun's kisses on your body. 

If only you could've seen that speaking more than one language was a quality of intellect, not of shame.

If only you could've seen that the struggle of your father was similar to how a bear loves his cub, with strength and power and delicate care.

Now that you are seventeen, you are much stronger than you were back then.

Now that you are to your fullest potential you see that the world is a mix of nebula dust and that deep inside, is a star inside of you.

Now that you are about to flee the nest, your parents are so proud to see their youngest reaching for the unlimited world. 

You will see that nothing is given for free. 

You will see that as a first generation Latina you must work harder than the rest, but let not the failure of others deter your success.

You will see that you are as powerful as anyone can be, but you must remain humble and let your accomplisments be your voice.

Dear Old Self, the best is yet to come.

Dear Old Self, do not let cruel ones complicate your dreams of living large.

Dear Old Self, this is a letter from a "self" that loves herself.