rewrite this to avoid AI detection keep same length tho, this is a letter to my past self:
Dear Ryan,
I know you're going through a tough time in middle school, and I understand how challenging it can be. As your future self, I want to assure you that things will improve. Looking back from my freshman college year, I can tell you that life has become so much better. First and foremost, I want you to know that you are not defined by your weight or the way others perceive you. It's easy to get caught up in the negative opinions of bullies, but remember that their words hold no true value. Your worth as a person goes far beyond your appearance. Focus on developing your character, nurturing your interests, and pursuing your passions.
Middle school is just a small chapter in your life, and as you grow older, you'll realize that people become more accepting and kind. College, in particular, is a transformative experience. You'll meet a diverse group of individuals who appreciate you for who you are. You'll find friends who share your interests and support you unconditionally. One thing that has changed significantly is your physical fitness. I remember how much you enjoyed playing video games, but it's important to strike a balance between leisure activities and physical exercise. Starting in high school, I made it a priority to take care of my health, and it has made a tremendous difference. Regular exercise not only improves your physical well-being but also boosts your confidence and self-esteem. It has become the biggest part of my daily routine and has had a profound impact on my overall well-being. Starting in junior year of highschool, I made a conscious decision to prioritize my physical health and incorporate regular exercise into my lifestyle. Initially, breaking away from the allure of video games required effort and discipline. However, as I immersed myself in various physical activities, I discovered a newfound passion that surpassed the temporary enjoyment of gaming.
Exercise became a way for me to channel my energy, relieve stress, and improve my self-confidence. It helped me develop discipline, perseverance, and resilience—qualities that extended beyond the realm of physical fitness and positively influenced other aspects of my life. Engaging in sports, fitness classes, and outdoor activities not only improved my physical fitness but also provided opportunities to socialize, connect with others who shared similar interests, and build lasting friendships. Through exercise, I not only transformed my physical appearance but also cultivated a deeper sense of self. I learned to appreciate my body for its strength and capabilities, rather than solely focusing on external appearance. The more I challenged myself physically, the more I realized the untapped potential within me. I discovered that my body was capable of achieving incredible feats, and this newfound confidence spilled over into other areas of my life.
Gradually, the time I used to spend playing video games shifted towards engaging in physical activities. The sense of accomplishment and the endorphin rush I experienced after a challenging workout far surpassed the temporary satisfaction I found in gaming. While video games provided an escape in the past, exercise became my outlet for growth, self-improvement, and personal fulfillment. It's important to acknowledge that everyone's journey is unique, Ryan, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, I encourage you to explore physical activities that resonate with you. Find something that brings you joy, whether it's team sports, solo activities like running or swimming, or even dance or martial arts. The key is to find an activity that ignites your passion and allows you to develop a stronger connection with your body and your overall well-being.
As you embark on this journey, remember to start at your own pace and gradually challenge yourself. Don't compare your progress to others, as everyone has their own starting point. Embrace the process, celebrate small victories, and remember that consistency is key. With time and dedication, you'll witness the positive impact that exercise can have on your physical and mental well-being. However, despite the positive impact of exercise on my life, I must be honest and share that I also experienced moments of self-doubt, body dysmorphia, and the constant feeling of never being good enough. During my college years, as I became more focused on fitness and physical health, there were times when I became hyper-aware of my body. I would scrutinize every perceived flaw, comparing myself to others and falling into the trap of never feeling satisfied with my appearance. This self-critical mindset led to body dysmorphia, a condition where one's perception of their body becomes distorted, often focusing on perceived flaws that may not align with reality.
In a world saturated with images of idealized bodies and societal pressures to conform to certain beauty standards, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparison. I want to stress to you, Ryan, that comparison truly is the thief of joy. Comparing ourselves to others, whether it's in terms of physical appearance, achievements, or any other aspect, only serves to undermine our self-confidence and diminish our own unique journey. It took time and self-reflection for me to recognize that true fulfillment and happiness lie not in comparing myself to others, but in embracing and accepting who I am, both inside and out. I realized that my worth as a person goes far beyond my physical appearance. It's the sum of my values, my character, my passions, and the positive impact I have on others' lives.
I learned to shift my focus from external validation to self-acceptance and self-love. It's a continuous process, Ryan, one that requires conscious effort and self-compassion. I started practicing gratitude for my body and all that it enables me to do, rather than fixating on its perceived imperfections. I surrounded myself with positive influences and supportive friends.
Remember, Ryan, you are more than your appearance. You are a unique individual with your own strengths, talents, and potential. Embrace your journey of self-identity, and remember that true happiness lies in accepting and loving yourself unconditionally. Emphasize self-care, both physically and mentally, and seek balance in all aspects of your life. While exercise and physical fitness are important, it's equally crucial to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Take time for self-reflection, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment beyond your physical achievements. I want to emphasize that your identity is a fluid concept. It evolves over time as you gain new experiences, encounter different perspectives, and explore various philosophies. Throughout our course together, we've delved into the concept of personal identity and how it intertwines with the world around us. Understanding this has been crucial in shaping my own growth.
In our philosophy course we take in college, we've discussed the concept of self-identity and how it relates to our understanding of the world. The philosophical idea of self-identity emphasizes the importance of introspection and self-reflection. It encourages us to question societal norms and expectations and to discover our authentic selves.
 As you navigate through middle school and beyond, take the opportunity to explore different aspects of your identity. Embrace your interests, whether it's through hobbies, extracurricular activities, or academic pursuits. Allow yourself to evolve and grow, knowing that your identity is not fixed but can change and adapt over time.
Remember, Ryan, your self-identity is not solely based on external factors such as appearance or social acceptance. It encompasses your values, beliefs, strengths, and dreams. Embrace your unique qualities, even if they may seem different from those around you. Embracing your self-identity will empower you to stand confidently in who you are and make meaningful connections with others who appreciate and value you for your authentic self.
I want you to know that college will be a transformative experience. You'll have the opportunity to further explore and shape your self-identity in a supportive and diverse environment. You'll meet people who will appreciate you for who you are and celebrate your uniqueness.
As you continue your journey, Ryan, remember to be kind and patient with yourself. Self-identity is a lifelong process, and it's okay to be unsure or to make mistakes along the way. Trust in yourself and your ability to navigate the path of self-discovery.

With love and encouragement,

Your future self