When I was 10

I'm not even sure if I'd like myself from when I was 10...I doubt it. I think my 10 year old self would like what I've become though. I had a vision for who I wanted to be back then, and while I'm not perfect, I did an alright job in living up to that.

This is a letter I wrote to myself at 10. I'm not sure how much would hold true, or I'd want to keep, but a semester ago, it's what I thought I'd want to say.

Dear Samuel Tang,

Hey kid...do you like being called kid? I don't remember. I don't remember a lot of stuff from when I was 10, truthfully. You're in...what, fifth grade? Yeah, life is hard right now, isn't it. Blake Ingram is going to be difficult, and just so you know, he'll want to play cello today. But it's alright because in two years , he'll be gone. So will a lot of your current friends though.

You're going to get contacts soon too, and you're going to think they're incredible. And you're going to think that without your glasses, people are going to like you a little more. Maybe it was a contributing factor, but I'm not convinced. There's more in you than you know right now. But you're not going to need it for a while. Your potential, I guess is what you would call it. It'll burst up, like short sparks of electricity. You'll use it when you're pushed but control won't come for a while.

Just don't worry so much. I know it's hard, but really. Enjoy who you are, where you are. There's something fun everywhere. Your cello, Mrs. Masterson next year, Ms. Spencer this, Coach Doyle two years from now, and Coach Peach in four. They're fun people, enjoy them.

But keep a check on your temper, work on your anger. Your temper is unstable and usually ends with regrettable consequences. Your anger is strong, steady, and will always be there. You can rationalize with your anger, make the right decisions because you won't just explode. Believe me, in two months you'll be stand partners with Blake Ingram. Anger will be the only thing keeping you alive.

With Love,
Sam Tang

P.S. I guess I remembered more than I thought.