As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, we would like to share another “Letter To Our Younger Self”. The NAACP will be sharing letters written by our regional Women In the NAACP (WIN) Coordinators to their younger self. Our second highlight comes from Ardelia Walker of Region 6.
Dear Ardelia:
I have several messages for you. Right now, you’re living your best life—no bills, no worries, no stress. As you get older, you’ll have different paths open for you to take. Which one will it be? My overall message to you is to choose your paths wisely—your friends, career choice, spouse, and daily reactions. For one, there is a saying that you are the company that you keep. Don’t get stuck hanging with the type of people that you wouldn’t want to be labeled as. For example, if a group of popular girls mistreat others who do not look like them, you must be the one to not mistreat people because of the way they look. Pay attention to who they are on the inside. Are they nice? Are they responsible? Caring? Striving to be better people? Or are they rude? Reckless? Mean? Hateful? Secondly, as you go into middle school, you will have to start thinking about what you want to be when you grow up. This is the best time to ponder. Choose classes that will help you decide on your life long journey. Don’t lose focus because you will have to do the same thing in high school and again in college. I know that seems like a lot of school, but your grandparents and great grandparents fought hard for you to have these choices. Next, take your time before deciding to have a family. Try your hardest to get your career started first, but if the family comes before the career, don’t give up. Keep pushing. You got this! Lastly, choose your battles. Every situation does not require a response or reaction. Only fight the battles that truly mean something to you and your well-being.
I want to leave you with this last piece of advice, which I carry true to my heart. It was given to me by my grandmother: “Always share with others whether it’s money, food, clothing, or your time.” This means a lot to me and I have always followed this advice. Giving leads to blessings.
I hope that you will follow this advice. I look forward to watching you grow.
Sincerely yours,
2019 Ardelia
Young Ardelia
