I'm sure that a lot of people play this game with themselves. If you could only go back in time, right? Maybe you are remembering a happier time and just want to re-live it. Recently Grayson told me he wanted to be 16 again - when he was happy. My heart broke a little. Being 16 is something I would do over, too, but for different reasons.
When I was 16 I lacked discipline and direction. I dreamed and wished for a life that I wasn't actively working toward achieving. And I wasn't a particularly nice person because I was so dissatisfied with my life. I lost my way with my religion, relationships, self-respect. I made good grades, got my driver's license and a part time job, and attained some status in high school circles.
me at 16
Here's what I would do differently starting at 16:
*focused on what I wanted to do for a living someday, and apply for jobs and opportunities that aligned with that. I would have maintained a high standard of honesty and hard work, limiting my absenteeism, gaining insight from my peers and supervisors, and learning how to manage my money.
*enjoyed all of the opportunities high school had to offer instead of being so focused on popularity, drill team, and boys. Taken college prep level classes.
*pick the university I wanted to attend based on my future goals, graduated on time, worked part time and kept my grades high. Started applying for post college jobs sooner.
*Dated more than one person. Said no to things I shouldn't have been doing. Been responsible for my own health and well-being. Kept the lines of communication open with my mother.
*Made worthwhile connections and met more people. Honored family relationships. Gone to church with my mother. Taken care of my body and my mental and physical health. Asked for help.
*Plotted a course, then walked the path, held my head up, made myself proud.
Its like they say: youth is wasted on the young!
*still following a series of prompts
