Greetings, future me! Let me preface this by saying that you’re probably reading this because you need to and I want to thank you for that. Remember me, forever and always. Keep coming back to this article as much as you want, because as you know very well, I write from a place of partially discovered truth.
Whether it’s fate, luck or even the trials and tribulations that life throws your way, I hope at least one of these things on the list is true. If not, that’s totally fine! No need to stress, even though I know that word might still be part of your daily vocabulary.
Well, enough chitchat. Time to get started…
1. Romans 8:18
"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
If you had the chance to travel back in time to meet with me, you know that I would ask you one simple question: Was it all worth it? I hope this Bible verse still rings true to you in some way, shape or form. I hope that you’ve found the fulfillment that it speaks of, despite the sacrifices I’m sure you’ve had to make. And when you’re going through day-to-day struggles, I hope that you can still seek refuge in it and in God. Remember this.
2. Theatre
You’re probably wondering why this isn't number one on the list. Nonetheless, I hope that theatre is still a vital part of your life. Always remember that it’s what makes you feel the depths of despair and the heights of joy. It matters to keep your sanity in a world that I hope has improved for the better. I hope that your innate desire to tell stories never dies, but has lived on through this craft. After all, it’s what helped you discover many truths, am I right?
3. Loved ones
This one pretty much goes without saying. I hope that you’ve loved yourself enough to know who deserves your love in return. Continue to love yourself and if you don't, please remember that I can say these words even from this place of hardship. I hope your family still loves you, despite whatever sacrifices they’ve had to make. I hope that your significant other is your best friend and that you fall in love with them every single day. I hope that you can experience what it’s like to be a father because I can most certainly say that you deserve it.
4. Journalism/writing
Hey! Would you look at that? I feel so meta right now. Anyway, I hope that your writing has led you on many adventures and has allowed you to be a source of good in people’s lives. I certainly hope that your level of writing has improved, but then again I know it has. Please tell me that you started a diary, a blog or some other kind of journal so it’s easier for you to experience nostalgia. I hope that you’ve sought inspiration from the people you’ve met, interviewed or even shared experiences with. And lastly, I hope this article is making you smile when you’ve made it this far down.
5. Memories and life itself
I hope that the memory of me typing this article in our sophomore dorm brings warmth to your heart. I’m okay with not knowing the future. I hope that life has treated you with dignity, respect and love. Never lose your sense of humor because we both know how useful it is for shining light in dark places. And lastly, I hope that I’m not letting you down by making memories that aren’t worthy of your happiness. I am trying, and you know that’s the best I can do for now.
Say hello to everyone for me, especially those I have yet to meet.
Peace,
Your 20-year-old self who is still figuring things out.
