To the Girl Who Feels Behind

I remember the days full of daydreams, the ones that would take me to my twenties with a big famous dream job, husband, and a couple of kids, all before reaching 30.
Unsure how everything would flow, but I knew everything just "had" to happen; after all, things always work out in the end, right?
I painted the perfect white picket fence picture of how much better my life would be once I achieved those things, how I could finally escape into pure happiness. That all of those things would magically happen once you reach a certain age.
And I couldn't wait.
In reality, I didn't get a job right after college. I struggled to get and keep a job until my mid-twenties.
I had a major breakup and "failed" to have any form of relationship.
I blamed myself for it all.
I didn't feel purpose whatsoever, and old demons kept resurfacing.
So I continued my uncertain path, settling and wishing my heart away.
I tried new things.
I tried anything that could make my life a little happier in the moment.
Although nothing stuck, I gained confidence and lessons for the future.
No, I didn't get married and have kids in my early twenties.
I finally found "the one" at 27.
I got engaged at 31.
And I will get married at 33, childless.
While I still don't feel settled, I know I am on a journey, my journey.
Trusting in God has been tremendous, and after all my experiences, I know I am on my right path.
A path of healing and self-discovery that I so needed, even if I had to endure scary health battles and sacrificed a piece of my soul momentarily, to get to the other side.
For the girl who feels behind:
You are so loved already and have unique gifts. Your time will come.
Finding "the one" doesn't define you as a person.
Putting your health and happiness should always come first, and never sacrifice your soul for a job, relationship, please someone else, etc.
Think outside of the box; what do you love doing?
You are capable, no matter your age or stage.
Surround yourself with positivity! (probably the most significant piece of advice)
Relax a little more and enjoy each day.
Your dreams will come true, even if they don't happen as described in your head in a perfected timeline.
They may look a little distorted, but you will eventually see the beauty behind the madness.
Keep doing the next right thing.
Love,
Kimberly Ann