Dear My Past Self,
Never did I imagine I would make it this far. Let me start with this: I feel like a lot of the times, you probably feel like you’re crazy or think the things that you want to accomplish or unobtainable just from the size of your ambitions. I want to remind you to not back down from anything it is you want to do. I am so proud of you and all that you’ve done so far; the path ahead is long and challenging, but I know you can do it, no matter how cliche that sounds.
Okay, enough of the sentiments; let’s get into the emotional stuff. I know you didn’t fully grasp the extent of what mental health even is or how it affects you daily. I know the area you’re in doesn’t really understand what you’re going through and how to help you. I know your family and friends just don’t get it. I want to calm all your worries. Not only do you find solace and comfort in yourself, but you also share some of the ways you cope with others. You made a whole website documenting the things you struggled with and how you navigated the hard times throughout your own mental health journey. You constantly advocate for equal mental health for Black women and actively share why it is so important for Black women to begin a mental health journey. You chose a career to help people that look like you in a variety of ways. To say I am proud would be an understatement.
As you navigate the intricacies of mental health and the mental healthcare field, remember that your experiences are valid, your emotions are worthy, and your voice deserves to be heard. The path ahead may be winding, but your courage in sharing your story and advocating for others is forging a path toward positive change. You’ve not only embraced your journey but have also become a guiding light for those combating similar paths.
As for what we’re doing in life these days, I know back then, it was always really hard to settle on a passion or purpose. I settled on trying to help people the best way I could; I see it as a way to help out. It’s funny that back then, I know how much I hated talking about feelings or being vulnerable in any way, and now it’s literally my job to get people to talk about their feelings; funny how life works out.
You’re loved, you’re cared for and you can accomplish anything you want just by being you.