To Young Danny

In adolescence, we think we know everything. It’s a fact; we can’t change that.

Taking advantage of the #weekend-engagement, let’s write a letter to Danny at 15.

Although, knowing him, I’m sure he won’t listen to me.

Dear Danny:

Today, I got the chance to talk to you, and I’ll tell you, I’m you but a few years older. This is just another crazy thing, so don’t be scared.

I’m writing this while enjoying a bit of calm in the gardens of the Hotel Nacional. Yes, many things have changed over the years.

I sense you won’t get very far in this letter, but if you give me a chance and do what I say, life will be more vibrant for you.

In a few months or years, the change that’s coming will be radical. You’re going to suffer, you’re going to feel exhausted, but you will learn and grow in ways you can’t imagine.

But that won’t be enough; you need to learn this that I’m about to share, and you’ll be better—we’ll be better.

So, here we go...

Learn to Say NO

Even today, I find it very hard to say no. That’s why I’m asking you to help me.

Life is one.
Time is limited.
And your energy won’t last forever.

The sooner you understand this, the sooner we can grow.

I know you want to help everyone, save everyone, and above all, make everyone happy.

Remember? That’s why Mom says we’re going to be doctors (we’re almost there, buddy).

You only have 24 hours, and you need to focus on yourself, on your projects, which will already be difficult enough.

This brings me to my second point...

Value Yourself

You can always be better, and it will never be enough.

Look at your classmates, your friends, and see what you’ve achieved. Remember, you’re only 15 and have so much to live for. Even so, with so little time and so few resources, you’re doing well.

Yes, you have limitations and challenges, but you’ll work through them.

Take care of yourself. Take care of your family. If you don’t, no one else will.

Don’t let anyone judge you or comment on your situation.

There will always be someone who talks. Don’t let it influence you!

Tough times are coming, buddy.

Relationships won’t turn out as you expect; nothing is perfect. But when you don’t feel good, get out of there.

Don’t forget that.

And last but not least...

Solitude Isn’t Bad

Since we were younger, we’ve always been accompanied.

We can’t complain; we’ve always had friends, and there’s always someone there.

Today, that’s one of the things I enjoy the most, and maybe we learned it late, but spend time with your thoughts, with yourself.

It sounds strange; at 15, no one would recommend this, but learn to be alone. More than once, you’ll have to do it and move forward.

Adolescence is for enjoying, and yes, it is, but not everyone will want to see you well.

Not all friends are the same, nor do they all follow the same path.

That’s okay.

Be your best company.

Spend at least a few hours with your thoughts; you don’t know how much you’ll miss those moments.

Well, I don’t want to tell you much more.

Live and enjoy, and we’ll have stories for the grandkids.

Remember:
- Learn to say NO
- Value yourself
- Learn to be alone

Don’t worry too much about the rest; you’re doing fine.

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Now, back to the present... what would you say to your 15-year-old self?

This post made me think and realize many things; I hope it does the same for you. Let me know in the comments.

It will be a pleasure to read you.

Read you soon!

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All the images in this post are my own.