Letter to My First-Year Self — Julia Rutman

Sweet Julia,

Lean in. Lean into life. There is so much waiting for you. Beautiful people, a place that feels like home, and hidden treasures within yourself.

There are many surprises ahead, things that will alter the course of your life permanently. Know that you are on the right track. You’ll be asked to do things you’ve never done before. Some of these will be difficult, others will feel natural. In any case, trust yourself. If you can admit it, you know what your heart is asking of you. At times, you’ll feel lost and overcome by despair, and this is a natural part of the process of growth. You’re making space for the new. Remember that there are people around you who want to support you, if you let them. That might be the hardest part, but it’s what you need. Trust that you’ll know who to turn to.

Take your time; go at your own pace. The transitions you’ll experience in this phase of your life will seem to change everything about you, yet in truth you are only coming closer to who you truly are. Trusting the process may prove difficult, so trust what is in the present. You only get these moments as they come. Cherish them, savor them, love them. Even when it’s hard and everything hurts… especially then. It’s okay to let go of what you thought you wanted.

I won’t tell you where you are now, how you move. You wouldn’t believe me. A cliché, yes, but they’re clichés for a reason. But I will tell you that things are getting good.

So, keep your eyes and ears open, and lean in. Everything’s going to be okay. I promise. Let yourself dream bigger.

With love ❤