If you could go travel back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say? Would you say it in a few words? Write him or her a note with a piece of advice? Or would you sit down together for a long long conversation?
I recently posted a picture of a 9-year-old version of myself at my dad and stepmom’s wedding from 31 years ago. Comments about how happy I looked, smiling and laughing, poured in. Innocence and happiness. The entire world in front of her with endless possibilities.
If I only knew then what I know now…
So I sat there… in silent meditation for a quite some time and thought. And thought. And thought some more…about how desperately I wanted to talk with her. To hold her hand and share all that I have experienced, both in lightness and darkness.
She would prefer this “talk” over some tea and chocolate chips cookies, if I know her. (and I do…)
So let’s put the kettle on and open the cookie jar…
Dear Younger Me,
There is nothing wrong with you.
It’s ok that you are different, you don’t need people to understand you in order to believe in yourself. Your extraordinary soul will be revealed in time. Be patient.
Family IS important.
It’s not your fault..it’s nobody’s fault….everyone was just doing the best that they could with what they had.
Don’t burn bridges…they are the pathways between faith and love.
Forgive. Even when you don’t want to. Even when you think they don’t deserve it. (and especially when it is you) Forgive anyway. Peace is path where you thrive.
Talk to God everyday…He will show you the way. If He doesn’t, He will give you the strength to hang on until He does.
Laugh everyday…and no, your laugh is not too loud. It is honest and from your heart.
I believe in you.
Always choose courage to listen humbly, speak your mind and fight for what you believe in.
Always be stronger than your strongest excuse. Life will challenge you to some serious throwdowns. You will know failures…and experience victories. It’s ok. Be brave and don’t you dare give up! You will always rise stronger, I promise.
You have the power to change your life. Only you. Do not give that power away.
You are going to make mistakes, you’re human. You won’t have all the answers, no matter how much you want them.
Admit your mistakes and plan to do better…and then do better. Actions speak much louder than words.
Listen to your gut, never compromise yourself for the sake of someone else’s ego….if it feels toxic, leave it alone and move on. I’ll say it again….leave it alone and move on.
Never be afraid to walk in this life alone, if it means staying true to who you are.
Life will grace you with so many blessings….keep your eyes up and your heart open.
Pray. Everyday. Anywhere. Everywhere. Silence is the most powerful sound you will know.
You are always enough. ALWAYS.
And if you absolutely need an answer….choose love. It usually wins.
With Love,
Your 40-year-old self
And then I would hold her face in my hands, just like my grandmother used to….just like she remembered too, and kiss her forehead. “Embrace your journey, little jenny” I would whisper as I watch her finish her tea and cookies.
Yes…how magical that moment in time would be.
Peace to all the younger “you”s out there.
Still you rise,
J
rundanceclimb 