Overdue Words To My Childhood Self

Hello, Kid,
Sit a spell, slow down and relax.
Breathe in and out...and again.
Now listen to me, and listen good.
Nothing is going to be perfect.
Not your hair, your clothes,
your self-esteem, your image.
Not your future marriage, nor your children.
Not even you, though you endlessly try.
Give it up, and instead embrace life's imperfections.
A word (or two) of strong advice -
Listen to the lovely sound of your
mother's voice in the next room,
hold your father's harboring hand just a little longer.
Laugh with your siblings and friends,
laugh at yourself. Just. Laugh. More.
Don't give a damn about what others think of you...
such a waste of time. You be you.
Love yourself, respect yourself. And above all,
guard your integrity and character.
They are the most important part of you.

A few final things:
When you see a sad, elderly man
on the beach when you are sixteen,
instead of being afraid and running away,
think twice. He's homeless and ill.
Go get help, or you'll painfully regret it
and worry about him the rest of your life.

Oh, and this crazy crush you have
on Bobby Sherman...so worth it!
Hubba, hubba!
***