Dear 11-year-old

Dear 11-year-old,

To most of you, welcome to middle school. Don't think of it as too daunting. Just wait until high school. Most people say that the time during middle school is the worst part of their lives. My suggesting is to not let that get to you. You're in a new division, and probably at a new school, so it could be a little scary. Once you get used to it, you'll be fine. However, joining a new school/division could also be a time management problem. Usually, you are offered more sports and extra-curricular activities. But you are also given more class/homework. So use your time wisely, and only choose activities that could help you in life or you enjoy the most, and only do a couple. When I was your age, I did cross country, school/community shows, and Youth Legislature. In addition to homework, that was a lot of work. Somehow, I was in bed by 10:30 pm almost every night. I think it was because my mom gave me the most helpful piece of advice anyone could give to anyone in school: work ahead (especially on weekends).

Moving into a new division/school is not the only big step you will take. No, I'm not talking about the one that everyone talks about. I'm not talking about the "oh, your body is going through big changes right now" step.  It's a much more psychological step: your voice. No, not the fact that it's getting deeper. But the fact that you have one now; that your opinions now matter a little bit more. You're not in elementary school anymore. You can have complex beliefs and opinions. You may start to decide what you want to do in life. You may be interested in the politics of our country, and maybe do something about it. Sometimes, the littlest guys ask the toughest questions. So have beliefs. Voice your opinion. You can make a difference now.

Signed,

a 14-year-old