If I could tell my 21-year-old self a few things, I would, first, sit her down while pouring her and I a glass of cabernet, because why wait until her 40’s to develop her palate and discover her love for its rich, bold, and elegant taste. Then I would look her in the eye and tell her to enjoy being young. She does not have to have it all together, that we have the awesome opportunity of discovering and rediscovering something new about ourselves and others every day. Yes, at 21, no matter how mature you think you are, there is still so much to learn, such as with more freedom comes more responsibility. I would tell her she does not have to get drunk to enjoy life. I would tell her to travel and experience the world through the beauty of different cultures. I would tell her to never be afraid to try something new, life is a journey, so embrace it. I would tell her she is a beautiful & unique creation of God in the earth realm and to not shrink back but be courageous enough to rock her uniqueness. I would tell her it is okay to rebel against the norm and encourage her to do just that. I would tell her to dye her hair red, it shows off her fierceness, and walk bolding into every new opportunity as if she belongs there. I would tell her to follow her passion & purpose instead of people and platforms, explaining that when you tap into your purpose you embody your greatness. I would tell her to fall in love with herself before she falls in love with anyone else, while giving her a side note, that she might fall in love a few times and that is ok. I would tell her it is okay to fail because failure is an event not a person and she can move pass or recover from an event. I would add that failure directs us and reveals what is truly in us in a way that success never could. I would tell her to own her voice! I would tell her that she has been given two of the post powerful words in the dictionary that can change her life -yes and no; it is the power of choice and never be afraid to choose what is best for you. I would tell her that pain can be her wisest teacher, so listen to it, do not get lost in or bury it. I would tell her the secret to life is love, and how it makes everything grow; how it can win an argument and end a war. I would tell her be wise enough to ask for help. I would tell her vulnerability is a strength not a weakness. I would tell her give herself permission to cry that our tears express things that our heart has no words for. I would tell her kindness is a healing herb, and gratitude is a treasured commodity. I would tell her that her smile is a better feature than her body, reminding her she is a treasure not an imagine. I would tell her that when she looks in the mirror she is looking at the standard of beauty. I would tell her forgiveness is a great counselor and good medicine. I will tell her to believe in God because he believes in her. I would tell her that she does not have to strive to be better than because she already is. I would tell her to learn how to just be. I would tell her that I am pretty darn proud of the woman she is. I would end by telling her… that I am sure there are more important things I should tell her, but I am still learning myself at 46.