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