Dearest brother,

Lately, I've been pondering the elements surrounding my life and why I view it the way I do. I've come to realize it's time for me to stop thinking I've lead such a tragic life. I'm through with this pity-me complex.

My life is what I make of it. If I feel I've met misery at every turn, then what's to stop me from acting as though the future isn't worth it?

It is.

I'm not a child anymore, Kalan. I can't keep letting people catch me at every stumble, aid me through every crisis. I need to learn to pick myself up and stride on. Some of the best lessons are learned through personal sacrifice and self-sufficiency.

I know this and I struggle with it. Perhaps I'm used to having a strong foundation of support beneath me. Is that why I am scared to leave the nest?

I'm nineteen years old and I will not act the child so people can treat me like one.
Despite what dad thinks and expects of me, I will rise and I will survive.
I'm a young woman.

It's time to take hold of my future.

Wish me luck,
Me