12 year old Rochelle

Dear 12 year old Rochelle ,
I caution you as you  make your transition into junior high /high school  . Set standards that fit you ,  not the opinions of those around you. A bit of advice for you , just because you see someone every day doesn't make them your friend. Be selective with those that you allow to enter the garden of friendship that is Rochelle , don't blossom for just anyone . You are a gem inside and out despite the size of your back pack or  the encyclopedia sized gap between your teeth . Don't ever feel ashamed or embarrassed because of the clothes that you have or the sneaker that might be out of style . That's what your parents are able to provide for you , never feel uncomfortable displaying the things they worked hard to give to you . You are bright Rochelle , and your future shines brighter . You will come across those who don't shine as brightly or will try to dim your shine by any means necessary . Do not steer of coarse , admiration , like a chameleon , come in many colors . Continue to make strides , continue to push boundaries , continue to question , learning doesn't begin and end in the class room alone . Life is a lesson and every day that we are able to breathe . While you take a deep breath , take in new information . As you exhale , release something new into the world . What is the point of knowledge if it isn't shared with others. No matter how toxic the air becomes please put on a gas mask and carry on , no matter how jagged things get continue searching for the soft rock to lean on , your future awaits don't turn back now .