Hello-I love you.

I love self discovery. I love learning who I am and who I was before I came to this earth. But it's hard to be living in this time. A time where girls are told what true beauty is, and that it only comes from the outside. Where media perpetuate unrealistic ideals for young women, usually unattainable. Since I was 13 years old I have struggled with self doubt and self esteem issues. But I am not alone! I know almost every girl on the earth today has at one point or another struggled with their perception of themselves.

You are wonderful. Inside of you is a light just waiting to come out. There is some one out there for you. He isn't perfect, but he will make you happy. True beauty comes within, no matter what others say. Don't get caught up in diet talk. Don't tell people how much weight you need or want to lose. Try not to complain about blemishes or your hairstyle or how pale you are.

The best advice I can give is to remember that little girl you once were. Remember the life without inhibitions, the joy you found in the simplest things and the laughter.

Remember a place that makes you happy. I have often used that trick. When you feel like you just might cry because you've compared yourself to some one else or let your mind go down a dark place, think of your happy place! Where do you feel the most like you? Sometimes I think I would give anything to go back.

Find some one who inspires you. (I have too many strong women in my life to post a picture of them all!)

Look back at your accomplishments, strengths and talents. Make a list. You are so blessed and you don't even know it!

Be who you are. Never settle for less.

This is important. When you make a mistake or fall down a trap DO NOT think you can't obtain forgiveness or move forward. You are always loved and always have the chance to make things right again. Or even better than before.

Yes, I know I need to take a leaf out of my own book. I have decided to stop being so negative about myself. If you start to talk diets I will not join in the discussion. I don't want to be on a certain diet anymore. My body was made this way for a reason. No matter what I say or think, I'm not fat. I will continue to eat healthy and try to exercise more regularly. I feel so much better when I do. I will not complain about how pasty I am. Skin cancer runs in my family. Why do I want to be tan so badly? I will not obsess over small imperfections or flaws. I will not demand perfection out of myself. And I will truly take to heart everything I have said in this post.

Whitney, it's nice to meet you again.

"Till this moment I never knew myself."-Elizabeth Bennet

I have these moments daily.