I recently went on a trip to visit my grandfather and help him move out of his home. Having just returned from college, where anyone older than 30 on campus is probably a professor, it was kind of strange hanging out with my older family members. Hearing them talk about their younger days as if those memories occurred centuries ago had me contemplating aging more than usual. Life events can effect us in unimaginable ways, like losing a spouse or sibling. But my hope is that despite these or other challenges I may face, that I maintain my drive and passion for life.

Dear 70-year-old self,

I am writing this at age twenty, and I still have much to experience. But as of right now, here's what I want to see from you.

First, I hope that you're still doing something you're passionate about. Whether that means working, volunteering, writing... From what I've seen, nothing keeps you feeling more alive than doing something you love. I hope you find those things and cherish them, because they become part of who you are.

Second, I hope you maintain your health. Eat well and exercise so you never have to take ten different medications to keep yourself alive every day.

Third, I hope you've explored every country you've ever wanted to visit, including the entire United States. What's the point of living on this beautiful planet if you never get to see as much of it as you can?

Fourth, I hope that you are able to experience deep love and have a strong base when you experience loss, as you inevitably will. As difficult as loss can be, I know you will have the strength and the best friends and family around to help you get through it. I don't want you to deteriorate or become a different person, as I have sometimes seen, but instead become stronger.

Fifth, I hope you don't have a lot of stuff. Clothes and accessories are great (and you should definitely still be stylish). But everything in moderation. Nothing good comes from having too much stuff in your house.

Sixth, I hope you never hold a grudge. I'm not very good at it now, so I doubt that will become an issue. But I hope you become better at learning to forgive and forget -- whether or not that person stays in your life is up to you. But holding onto resentment won't do anything for you except frustrate you.

Seventh, I hope you never miss out on important family events like holidays, graduations, and weddings because of small family issues. Trivial arguments should hold no bearing on whether you attend these momentous occasions, because life is too short.

Finally, I hope you work a job you love and fulfill all of your goals. Money isn't nearly as important as truly enjoying what yo do, and I hope you've found that job you've always dreamed of.