“Don't worry, stay healthy. Adolescence goes by so quickly.” ~ Ecclesiastes 11:10
Dear younger me:
As write this letter
to 10-year-old me, I’m flooded with memories of our past and the adventures
that led us here. If allowed to throw out a couple of the lousy ones and keep
the best ones, you will do just fine over the next several decades.
Every step you’ll take,
and every experience you’ll have, will shape the person you will eventually become.
So, listen closely to the words I’m sharing from the future.
Resist the urge to
grow up too fast. Be patient, God has much planned for you. Enjoy this time in
your life because youth and vitality don’t last forever.
You are unique. Embrace your individuality, your quirks,
and your passions; each will make your journey extraordinary. Don’t let others
define you. Remember that you’re awesome in God’s eyes and nothing you achieve or
bomb in life will change His love for you.
It's perfectly natural to feel unsure and doubt yourself. Life is a series of discoveries; each challenge you face presents a
chance to learn and mature. Don’t hide your pain or isolate yourself. Use your
story to help others feel less alone in theirs. Know that asking for help and
guidance reflects strength, not weakness.
Believe in yourself. Trust
your instincts. Embrace the trials and savor the moments of pure bliss. Keep
your heart open and your mind curious. Always stay true to your values.
Friends will come and
go; some last a lifetime, others leave inedible marks in a mere flash. Cherish all
the connections you make and the family you’re born into. Tell them how much
you love them as often as you can.
Be grateful for the
abundance of blessings surrounding you. If you search prayerfully, you’ll find
them everywhere. Never stop believing that you can change this world. By
setting a Christ-like example, you will make a difference in the lives of many.
Take life seriously, but don’t let that dwarf the simple moments
of joy and laughter. Have fun: dance like nobody’s watching, sing like no one’s
listening, and explore the world with childlike curiosity.
I wish I could take
your hand and guide you through the journey ahead. But that’s God’s job and He
has great plans for you. Every step you take, every choice you make, will lead
you to where I am now. And though the path isn’t always easy, it’s shaping you
into someone I’m already proud of.
Love always, your much older you.
Open the warmth of my heart, Lord. Teach me to
be Your disciple and a humble example for the lost people in my daily walks. Give
me boldness and clarity as I speak of Your love and mighty works in my conversations
and writings. Amen
