Dear Me...

I got the idea for this post from J who first saw it at Miscellanous Mum. The idea is that you write a letter from your present self to yourself in the past. I like J's letter so much, I thought, I'd give it a try, too.




Dear 1985 Me,

You are just 10 years old. The awkward phase is just around the corner, so I think you could use a little encouragement.

Already, the "in crowd" is forming. There is a group of girls who stand around on the playground and talk about who-knows-what during recess. Already, they are giving up their precious childhood right to play. I know it hurt your feelings when you approached their exclusive circle and they told you, in so many words, to go away. It makes me teary for you still. I assure you, however, that you aren't missing out on a thing in that silly circle. Monkey bars, swing sets, and see-saws are infinitely more fun, and you won't be a kid forever. So run free, little me! Those girls weren't your friends then, and I'm no longer in touch with a single one of them! When you walk into your ten year high school reunion seventeen years from now, you will feel fabulous because you learned to embrace yourself, and the playing field will feel incredibly even (or even slanted slightly in your favor) with respect to the "in crowd".

Now, about dreams. You and I both know that already you are a passionate person. When the auditions for Old McDonald's Follies happen next week, follow that instinct to audition for the lead. You will play Mrs. McDonald. It will awaken something in you that won't die for the rest of your life. It's called a dream. God placed it in your heart long before you will ever find out it is there. Some won't understand it. Some will admire you for it. Some will not accecpt you for it. And others will encourage you. Whatever you do, don't expect the rest of the world to offer you affirmation in this area. Just believe in yourself and go for it. One day, in 2006, a gorgeous man will fall in love with you, and embrace the artist inside of you. In fact, he'll want you just the way you are. You have no idea now how much that will mean to you, but trust me, it means a lot, and his love will be a healing balm to your sweet soul. You will love him with all your heart, and 2074 Me has a feeling that you will have a wonderful life together.

Speaking of love, this may be a bit of a topsy turvy road for you. In fact, you will learn a lesson or two from the school of hard knocks. Just learn what you have to learn, and keep your eyes on the Lord. He will guide you through some tough times, and even rescue you when you need it most. My best piece of advice about relationships would be to trust your instincts. If someone seems like bad news, he is. Period. Don't even question yourself for a second.

What I said a second ago about keeping your eyes on the Lord...that might sound a little strange right now. This summer though, you will go to a new summer camp, and the most life-changing thing will happen! You will become a Christian and begin a new life with Jesus. He will forgive you for all of your sins: past, present, and future. And all that guilt you've been feeling will be taken care of. You will be set free, and Jesus will be your best friend for life. Your mom already knows Him, and the rest of your family will know Him, too. Life will be full of ups and downs, but Jesus will never ever leave you.

Little me, be gentle with yourself. Be you. Enjoy each step of this wondeful journey! May God bless you!

Sending you a big hug,

2007 Me