Glen Christie has been a facilitator with the Reach Foundation for more than fifteen years, where he has created workshops that allow participants to feel safe to delve into their personal story, and reflect on what it is that they want in life and how to get there. Glen also works as an associate producer for MasterChef Australia.

Dear 13-year-old Glen,

I want to let you know first and foremost that you are a very funny and charismatic guy who doesn’t need to worry so much about the fact that you are gay. You are going to learn that it is actually something that will teach you to have understanding for others who are different. It will also mean that you will end up having a relationship with yourself that you couldn’t even imagine. One where you can say to yourself, ‘I am a good person.’ You can speak up for yourself, you can go for all the things you want in your life. The funny teeth you have that you never got braces on are something unique to you. So smile and laugh and don’t give a crap that they are crooked.

The biggest lesson I can give you, though, is to listen. Stop and really listen to what others are saying to you. Take the time to care about what other people are thinking and feeling: it is not always about you. If you do this you’ll find that others might just do the same for you.

Crying and being vulnerable are good. You are a sensitive little guy. Don’t hide it, always let it out. You will find that the courage to be honest will be hard, but it will mean that you have been true to yourself. Keep watching Disney movies – in your heart you are a kid, never lose the kid.

When people tell you to get a stable job, ignore them. They want stability so they don’t have to feel scared. Opportunity comes with risk.

Explore your body and appreciate it for all that it is. Because it is going to carry you through this life. Don’t let anyone put it down and especially not yourself. You can be so cruel to yourself. It doesn’t help. Don’t ignore it either, though. Stop and listen. Get active and breathe.

Friends, family and love are the most important things in life. Shoot for the stars, but never forget those three things, because without them, the dream is empty.