The best advice I would give to someone younger than me is to slow down and enjoy each moment as if it were your last. Life has a way of moving faster than we expect, and many of the things that seem urgent or overwhelming today won’t matter nearly as much years from now. Don’t give the little things more emotional energy than they deserve. Save your time and attention for the people, experiences, and moments that truly enrich your life.

I would also tell them not to internalize every opinion that others have about them. Listen to what resonates and feels true, and leave the rest behind. Not everyone will understand you, accept you, or choose to be part of your journey, and that’s okay. As the Bible says, sometimes you have to dust yourself off and move on. Let people do what they are going to do without carrying the weight of their choices on your shoulders. Instead, focus on becoming the best version of yourself regardless of your circumstances. Be grateful for what you have rather than dwelling on what you don’t have. Contentment, self-respect, and inner peace are worth far more than constantly chasing the next thing you think will make you happy.