Dear Future Me,

First off, I wanted to congratulate you on not dying. Wikipedia tells us that in the United States a person faces 22 “micromorts,” or units of risk that measure a one-in-a-million probably of death, per day. I’m not completely sure what that means, but I do know that it’s pretty impressive. Life is kind of dangerous.

Secondly, I wanted to let you know that I’m proud of you. I know that things haven’t always gone your way. You’ve gone through so many heartbreaks and letdowns. Despite that, you continue on, fighting to figure out who you are and where you fit in this world. That’s really brave.

I don’t know what you’ve accomplished or what you are going through right now, but believe me when I say everything will turn out all right. You are a strong, capable person with a good heart. Nothing is going to get in the way of you living your best life— not even yourself which, as I’ve come to understand, is our biggest enemy.

I sincerely hope that you still find joy in dancing around like a crazy person to loud music and still laugh uncontrollably about silly things. I hope you’ve learned how to be selfless even when you get nothing out of it. More than anything, though, I hope you still believe in yourself and your ability to do whatever you set your mind to. That seems to be a unique quality in a person. Be sure to use it to better the world.

Please remember to stay in contact with your family. As I’ve said, people in the United States face 22 micromorts a day. Not everyone in your life will be around forever. Make sure they feel loved and appreciated.

Also, when is the last time you traveled to a new place? I know you haven’t seen the entire world yet. Remember that travel is the best way to remind yourself that the world doesn’t revolve around you.

And, my god, I hope you learned how to loosen up a bit. If you die from a stress-related illness, I’ll be so mad at you. Get that under control. Learn how to have fun and not take life so seriously.

I encourage you to write another letter to yourself now that you’re — er, I’m? — older. As time has went on, I’m sure you’ve gotten much wiser. Still, please keep this letter because it will always hold true.

You should also consider writing a letter back to me. What would you say if you could tell me anything? Obviously, I’ll never be able to read that letter, but maybe it will remind you how far you’ve come since your early stages of self-actualization.

If you take anything away from this letter, just remember that you’re freaking amazing. Show the world who you are. Only then can you make it a better place.

I’m rooting for you. I always will be.

Much Love,

Me