Redheaded Jill

Dear 5 year old Regan,

There are some things I wish I could tell you bc it would drastically improve your sense of self worth and self esteem as an adult.

– Just because someone who look different from you is celebrated as cute doesn’t mean you are not also cute.

– Your baby sister is a different person from you and you don’t have to play the comparison game.

– Kids are mean. You are not gross because you have hair on your arms, or because you have pale skin and freckles.

– You can say no but still be kind. Being kind doesn’t mean being a push over.

– You are the oldest daughter in your family, which is wonderful, but it doesn’t have to become your whole identity.

– Being a natural caretaker doesn’t mean you owe your friends parental care. They have parents. You are also a child.

– You. Are. Not. Fat.

– Ask for help when you need it. Especially in math.

– Smiling at people and being friendly is all you need to do to make friends.

– Always stick up for others.

– Childish behavior is normal for a child. You are not bad or too much just bc you experience normal human emotions.

– Be nice to everyone, but don’t spend too much time with anyone who makes you uncomfortable. Especially when you get to fifth grade.

Sincerely,

Adult Regan