A Message To...

If I could go back in time and be with you again, I would. I'd sit beside you and whisper all of this to your little five-year-old heart, the one that's wide open to the world. I'd tell you to start traveling now, not just to see new places, but to understand people. Your stylish little-kid self, with the glasses and backpack, is a magnet for connection. The cost of a ticket is nothing compared to the wealth you'll gain from simply listening, asking, and understanding that this world is a beautiful, intricate mosaic. It’s up to you to decide what flavors you’ll savor, but trust me, your stomach will thank you later for going easy on the spice.

The most important advice I have is this: hug Mum and Dad more. Let them feel that their sacrifices have built the foundation of your world. There will be times you'll resent the aesthetics of your life the things you think you lack but remember, no one will remember how it started. They'll only remember the love you gave and the person you became.

Do yourself a favor and hold on to your memories. Stash away every photo, note, and card. Someday, when you're looking for a picture of your younger self, these will be priceless. Keep those old cameras, phones, and even cassette players. History has a funny way of repeating itself, and you’ll want to be ready to capture every moment.

When it comes to the future, learn to save money.

A company called Apple will come along, and so will Facebook. Get acquainted with investing and think bigger than just shoes. The “American Dream” isn’t just a house and a dog; it's financial freedom. Buy houses instead of fleeting trends. Do this a few times, and you can build a legacy for your future self.

And hey, I'm just telling you this as a man who’s lived it find a duck and hug the heck out of it. Don't ask why, just do it. Trust me, it’s an act of pure, unbridled joy. Just make sure it’s a waddling, non-aggressive one, or you might end up with a lifelong fear of birds.

Life is a game of strategy, more like chess than checkers. Learn to be versatile: run, throw, kick, think, sing, and stand still when you need to. Be prepared for what comes your way.

As for love, so many people talk about it, but the most important love is the one you have for yourself. Your voice will sound different, your humor will be quirky and that's a good thing. You'll be a little darker and not overly tall, but get ready to face the world with confidence. The name-calling, bigotry, and side-eyes are a reflection of their smallness, not yours.

Do not waste time. Yours or anyone else's. You'll feel the urge to save everyone, but learn to be discerning. Follow your heart, your gut, and your mind. You will learn through trial and error; just remember not to stay down for too long. The journey is meant to be a forward one, one foot in front of the other.

The love of your life will find you in your late thirties. You'll learn patience, kindness, and hope. Use those experiences to write a note to your older self. Always remember to be open, honest, and courageous. If you ever feel like you're not enough, look back at the little boy with the large glasses and the smirk on his face, that's your inner child, and he is everything you need.

There will be times when you want to give up. In those moments, remember the people who love and care for you. But most importantly, remember to love yourself. Life will be difficult, but you will need to stand strong and tall.

Before I forget, never stop singing and being creative. In your backpack, you'll find a little something to transport you. Only the coolest people get one of these.

In the end, I'll be looking back at you, and you'll be looking ahead at me. Let's be gentle with ourselves. As I look at you, I remember the little guy who just wanted to laugh and be loved. As you look at me, I hope you see the man who still wants the same. Never settle for less. Maybe work on a six pack and learn to flex a bit too.

I'll find you soon, fam. Be kind to yourself.