Coffee with My Early 20s Self

I often over hear young women talking at the mall, a restaurant, or at a bar about their lives: The ups and downs, the dating, the lack of dating, what they wish they had, how awful their parents are, if they could just _____ (fill in the blank with pretty much anything).

Truthfully, these conversations make me feel wise for my age (that's a nice way of saying old). I smile to myself thinking back to when I was their age, so often I want to say _____ (fill in the blank with some uncool parental advice).

If I could have coffee with the me of my early 20s (well, she'd probably order a Blue) I'd have a lot to say:

1. Don't lose sleep over not having it all figured out, that's impossible, and it will work out.
2. That the credit card debt racked up during and post college that keeps her up at night, will be paid off (she'll enjoy a great night out in celebration when the last payment is made).
3. One day her mom will be her friend (I may have to administer the Heimlich to keep her from choking when I mention this one).
4. To not only respect herself more, but to expect respect from others, she's worth it.
   
5. That she's stronger than she thinks and the years to come will show her just how resilient and strong she really is.
6. That the ER trip to the emergency room when she's 7 months pregnant, will result in everything being fine.
   
7. That her true friends will always be there for her and she'll see just how much as they become more like family.
   
8. That any man that makes her cry instead of holding her when she does is just a boy and not worth her time. (even if he looks good in faded jeans and is a great kisser, especially him).
   
9. To enjoy coming home to a silent apartment (some day she'll think about checking into a hotel for the same peace, and one weekend she will).
   
10. That true happiness really does come from within. (an occasional glass of wine helps).
11. That one day she'll not only use that crock pot, but wish she had another (and then a 3rd).
12. That a hot bubble bath with lavender salts, a good book, and a glass of wine will be a happy replacement to standing in line outside during the winter in a mini skirt to pay a cover charge.

Now about that bath...