“Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?”
― Mary Oliver
I give you this quote and immediately tell you not to worry too much about what you will do.
At sixteen, your opportunities are like a huge walk-in closet. When you are wondering what to wear, you needn’t choose for a lifetime. Try on what looks good to you but wear what fits and and is comfortable for now, knowing that you can change later.
Make your choice for who you are.
You are already discovering the complexity of that person. As you peel off the layers and discover more of yourself, you will find answers to questions you didn’t know you had. Last year it all seemed clear. This year you are already looking back and adjusting with new insight, like choosing a new outfit from the vast options.
And you will keep growing, my love. What you want to do one day will seem ridiculous the next. The life you choose for yourself today may not work this new world. Don’t be afraid. Embrace it. What isn’t the perfect fit can still be the perfect lesson.
It isn’t always easy to accept change. Just try to be open to the process – knowing that your emerging inner self has a voice that will have much to say if you listen.
So enjoy your wild and precious life – remembering that what you do does not define who you are, but who you are will guide what you do.
xxoo
A Letter to my Children 