Hey younger Cleo,

This is you from 2022. You don’t know this yet, but you are in for an emotional rollercoaster. There will be times when you question yourself, God, life, family, and your career but you will make it through a tougher cookie. The road will not be easy and the scars will take years to heal. In the end, you will know that all good and bad things will come to an end. When you are my age, you will understand. When you turn 20, you will meet someone who will be by your side through all this fuck shit. I will not give much away regarding the relationship.

Just be patient.

You will move to Charlotte, Scottsdale and back to Chicago in your mid to late 20s. Enjoy that time but also be aware of your surroundings. People will try to take advantage of you in more ways than one. Try not to be naïve although you are. Not everyone has a good heart. Take the L with stride as it will bring awareness to you later in life. I made the mistakes so you don’t have to.

You will also lose sight of your great aunt/grandmother and how much she really means to you. Love on her as much as you can. Don’t forget to call weekly as something tragic will happen that will shift your world later. You will struggle with finding your life’s passion. Follow your first mind and heart. You already know what you want in life. Put the pen to the paper and write.

You will attend many schools and go through many majors before finding the right one you will enjoy. Some people will talk you out your dreams. DO NOT allow them to. If you do go down the same path, give yourself grace. It’s ok to not finish based on society’s standard. Getting that degree will feel beautiful regardless of your age.

In your 30s, you will get married. Family will question your decision for a late marriage. It isn’t their business nor their decision. Your timing is perfect for yall.

Always remember that.

Don’t feel pressure to have a baby either: your Body, your decision. Fuck what people have to say and do what’s best for you. There will be laughs and tears throughout this journey called life. You will question “Why me?” but what you need to ask is “why not me?” You will stun yourself daily with your strength and wit. Live your life, fulfill your dreams, and do that shit with ten toes down.

I will forever be by your side. We all we got til the end.

Forever,

Older Cleo