Letters to the Future: Fourteen Tips

(from the homework of Paulette F. Miraflor, II-Narra)

To My Future Daughter,

When I wrote this, I was just thirteen, a teenager, and that's what this is all about - how to survive being a teenager. Being a teenager is the most exciting stage in a person's life, but bear in mind that you must always be cautious in making your decisions, because this is also the time when one makes the most mistake in his or her life that he or she will regret in the future.

Here are some tips that might help you, with family, friends, school, identity crisis, and ehem - love and crushes.

Tip #1 - Listen to what your parents say. We only want what's best for you. We don't want to see you falling flat on your face. We're keeping you from getting hurt. Don't be afraid to ask us for help.

Tip #2 - Before friends, family comes first. It's true; at the end of the day, family's all you've got. The members of your family are your pillars, your reinforcements, so never take us for granted.

Tip #3 - Never keep secrets from Mommy. Be honest with me always. You can trust me and I'll always understand you.

Tip #4 - Choose your friends; don't trust just anybody. Not all friends are true friends. The ones who stay with you when a storm comes along are the ones who are true.

Tip #5 - Love your friends; never leave them behind. Treat them well. They make you laugh, they'll cry with you, they'll give you a push when you need it.

Tip #6 - Study, study, study. Studying can sometimes be boring, but it sure pays off.

Tip #7 - Don't stress yourself out. If you're stressed, you won't be able to think straight.

Tip #8 - Don't let bullies bring you down. Right now, I'm having a hard time with bullies, but heck, I don't care. Who are they anyway? Just ignore them.

Tip #9 - Don't be afraid to make mistakes. It's better if you avoid making mistakes, but they're inevitable. Don't worry, as they say, "Experience is the best teacher."

Tip #10 - Follow what you think is right. Don't give in to anything just because everyone else is doing it. Go for what you think should be and for what is right.

Tip #11 - Dig deeper into yourself. You should know who you really are. You also have limitations, weaknesses - nobody's perfect. But aside from your flaws, you should know you also have talents, skills and assets.

Tip #12 - Books before boys. You're still too young. Sure, crushes are okay; they're the salt and pepper to a girl's life, but relationships are a no-no. You're too young to have your heart broken. Enjoy being a teenage girl without a boyfriend. You'll have much time for that later.

Tip #13 - Set your goals. Everyone has their dream, all you have to do is realize what it is and aim for it.

Last but not the least, God should always be Number One. The reason why you're here is because He wanted you to be here, to fulfill His purpose for you. He will guide you through whatever the long and winding road of life may bring you.

Well, that's about it. Follow these and I'm sure it'll be easy for you.

Love lots,
Mom