Dear Young Tyreka, 

Wow! Can you believe that you are finally an adult? You have waited for this moment since you were 16 years old. I can tell you that you enjoy the freedom that adulthood brings but could pass on the paying bills part (haha). I know that you are excited and have many questions regarding what lies ahead but let’s slow down and focus on the life-changing experiences.

You don’t realize it yet, but shortly after graduating high school, a very traumatic event will take place that changes you and how you view the world forever. There will be stints of extreme depression that many don’t see. As a result, you suffered from feelings of loneliness and guilt. You would grieve the young girl you once were as you knew you would never be that girl again. You develop a dangerous and unhealthy relationship with your strength. That unstable romance prevents you from properly coping. Your family is everything to you and will remain that way. They held you up during a very troubling time. Your struggles were never expressed but their love and guidance led you out of the darkness. The time spent with them and the many laughs saved you and you will be forever grateful for them. Don’t worry, with time and extensive work on yourself, you make it through. 

College will be one of the best experiences that you’ll ever have. Lincoln University of Missouri is where you will learn the true meaning of friendship. You meet a group of young women who change your life forever. They may never understand how their undying support and kindness kept you encouraged during one of the most difficult times in your life. LU is also where you find your best friend and now husband. One of your psychology professors will become your mentor and help shape you into the professional you are today, Although, college provided some great times, there was no shortage of the bad. It was during this time that you go through tremendous financial struggles. There were many days that you didn’t know how you were going to make it, but with the assistance of family and friends, you graduate college strong. 

Most of the things that have taken place in your life, I wouldn’t change because those experiences helped shape and mold you into the woman you are today. However, hindsight is always 20/20 and there are some things that I wish you would have known that you know now. At times you can be stubborn so I hope that you will listen to the advice that is given. 

• Cherish every moment that you have with your family and friends as you never know how long you have with them.
• Express your feelings of love and gratitude.
• Don’t sweat the small stuff because it’s just small stuff. 
• Live in the present.
• Live on purpose and with purpose.
• Be responsible with your money, save, and invest.
• Remember that you are more than enough, and the negative thoughts or words of others will never change that. 
• Hold your head high even when it seems too heavy to lift as your strength and determination will help pull you through. 
• No matter how cold the world may seem, be kind, and help those in need as that will one day become your purpose in life. 
• Last but certainly not least, NEVER GIVE UP. Do not allow your past and what you have been through define who you will become.

Sincerely, 

Older and Wiser Tyreka