If I could talk to myself from five years ago, I would be eight years old. The first thing I would say
is, “Have fun and enjoy everything! Time goes by really fast.” When I was eight, that was when
COVID-19 started. Everyone had to stay home, wear masks, and not go outside. At first it felt kind
of fun because I didn’t have to go to school, but after a while I got really bored. I missed my friends,
my teachers, and even just being outside with other people. Still, even with all that, I feel like those
years went by so quickly.

I would tell little me to enjoy every single moment while growing up. I remember when Mom and
Dad got upset with me over the smallest mistakes, and I thought they were being unfair. But now I
know they were only trying to help me be my best self, even if it feels like they’re mad at me all the
time. I would tell little me not to be sad when they yell, but to remember that they love me and just
want me to do well.

I would tell little me to spend more time with my brother. Back then, I didn’t know how much I
would miss him when he left for college. I miss playing video games with him, going on trips
together, and him driving me places I wanted to go. We used to fight a lot, but as we got older, we
outgrew that and became really close. Now that he is no longer home, I miss him so much, and I
miss all the fun things we did together.

I would tell little me to enjoy school more. I had the best teachers and the best friends. I would
remind myself to enjoy recess as much as possible. The fun of running around and playing tag on
the playground is something I really want to relive. I would also tell myself to be thankful for my
teachers, because they made school fun and helped me when I was struggling. And I would tell
myself to enjoy all the laughs, the silly fights, and the little moments with friends, because those are
the memories I will miss when I get older.

So, if I could really talk to my younger self, I would say, “Have fun, don’t rush to grow up, and love
your family and friends every single day.” One day you will look back and wish you could relive
those little moments, so enjoy them while they’re happening!