Letter to 16 year old Robin

Dear 16 year old Robin.

I am writing this letter to you from your 62 year old self. I know that sounds really old to you, but really in 2012, 62 is the new 42, so it's not that bad at all. I have been thinking about what sage advice I would have for you and it is very complicated. I want to yell, "DON'T GET MARRIED AT 17." Seriously, if it is meant to be the relationship will be there when you are mature enough to marry but if it's a deal breaker, marry the guy because together you made two really great kids. You will wonder for a while if that will ever happen, but trust me and be patient for it will happen. Whether you prolong the engagement or marry at 17, finish your high school education and find a profession that suits you...Become a social worker and get settled in an agency right away, so you can retire at 55. You have 6 years between getting married and having kids - so lots of time! I remember that you wanted to change the world in your 20's so social work would have been a perfect career. You also became very interested in pedagogy so teaching would have been a great second choice. You would have had summers off with your kids. Saying all of that...Life has really been pretty good, and making different choices might end us up in a really different place. So go with your heart!

Other wisdom, I will share with you is to remember who you are today, that talented 16 year old. Be kind and be assertive in your relationships, and most importantly, don't take everything so seriously. Sometimes it is okay to relax and have fun. Be in the moment. Here is the good news: You learned many lessons before you were 16 and they will serve you well. You will create numerous paintings and drawings, you will write thousands of words in poems, songs, stories, recording history and even as a newspaper reporter. You will approach the world with a loving heart and this one will probably stun you, but you will realize in your mid 40's that you are gay. Remember that teenage crush you didn't understand...I think it may have been more real than you believed.

In closing, I want you to know that your Spirit Guides will watch over you and will show themselves to you often over the years. It is going to be a great ride! You will love and you will be loved. You will fall out of love and part ways with some, but they will always be a part of you and those you love. Finally, and I know this is hard to comprehend at 16, but just wait until you meet your 5 beautiful grandchildren! We, that is you and me are running out of time to change the world, but we definitely made an impact...and we are leaving the mission in good hands.