Liz Sauter: Dear Self, Looking back, be proud of how far you’ve come. You couldn’t change the cards you were dealt, the ones that made your childhood tough, but you rose above them with resilience, strength, and compassion. You were always independent, never lost sight of your dreams (those adventures kept coming), and you never stopped giving back to those in need. Keep being a role model—not just for people, but be the voice for all of the animals who rely on your kindness and advocacy. Speak up even louder to help others be heard, and always lead with empathy. Find and appreciate the kindness in the world, and more importantly, be the one who spreads it!
Maria Mavridis, town councillor, "To the 9 year old me: Be proud, roll your shoulders back and continue standing tall. You may not feel like a strong female now but I promise you, one day you will. You will face social challenges, heart ache, loss and financial struggles. You will also see acceptance, love and success. See, life isn’t going to always be perfect. It will challenge you, more than you think you can handle, but that is when you need to stand tall and look around you. So many who are next to you, in front of you and behind you.
Though you lose your mom, you will find strength in it and become the best mother to your miracle baby, a daughter, a best friend, who will fill your heart with so much love and joy that you never knew existed. Then, one day, you realize that you are the person you have become because of all the challenges you have faced and were guided by some of the strongest females in your life. And now, you are exactly who you have always been. Stay true to yourself and to those around you. Learn from mistakes. Be inspired by others. Never take for granted any advice; good or bad. Apologize when you are wrong and take praise when it’s given.
Raise those around you, and when you look back, you will always stand tall.
Katherine McMichael, business woman, to Little Katherine: "You wouldn’t believe the places you will go, the things you will accomplish, and the experiences you will have — keep working hard and dreaming big! You can accomplish anything you set your mind to. Be kind to yourself and others — a smile will brighten your day and theirs. Keep loving the things that make your heart happy — they’ll guide you toward the people and places that are meant for you. Above all, always remember that you are enough, just as you are. You’ve got this. With love and encouragement, Katherine."
Fran Boot: "Put your own oxygen mask on first."
Adriana Vizzari, town councillor:
"My advice to my younger self is something that I tell my kids all the time: life isn’t just for experts — it’s for those willing to try. Be flawed, keep going, fail, learn, and do your best. That’s how you grow."