A Letter To My 12-Year-Old Self

Thirty-seven years ago this week, I attended Phantom Ranch at the age of 12. Phantom Ranch is a camp about two hours outside of Chicago in the small town of Mukwonago, WI. This camp was part of the foundation that has guided my life as I spent many summers as a camper, counselor, and staff member.

Last week, I went back to Phantom Ranch to hang out with the kids and staff, as it was Super Teen Week.

Visualize 125 teen-aged campers, 25 counselors, 75+ staff members of all ages ... and me.

Within a few hours of being back on the grounds, my years of camping memories came back, and I thought, reminisced, and wondered. If I knew then what I know now, what would I tell my 12-year-old self?

I thought I'd write a letter to me.

JT:

Life is what you make it!

Happiness won't be tied to money; who or what you know; the title you seek or are given; a house, car, or number on an account. Beware, as society will point you in this direction over and over, but don't fall for it, because it's a trick! If you fall for this, you'll miss out on real happiness!

What is real happiness? Do you really want to know?

Real happiness is investing in people -- and I mean everyone -- you come in contact with.

Help them to reach their dreams; make them feel as if they are they are the most important person in the world. Learn to live this way early in life, as it'll become a habit that will pay enormous dividends.

Kindness and respect won't always be shown to you ... but always show it yourself.

Lead with warmth; disarm conflict with words, as what you say will nurture or tear apart.

Learn from mistakes, over-apologize, and have at least one meaningful conversation with someone way older or younger than you every day.

When you hit a struggle or rough patch along the way, take it in stride and fight through it, as it won't last forever. Always look for the good in everyone and everything.

Hope, trust, and believe!

Reach out with comments, ideas, or your stories and photos to John Thomas:
Cell: (585) 469-0738 || JT@AllAccess.com
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