A letter to my younger self

Hi there, everyone! In keeping with the whole ‘time-slip’ theme, I had a thought to write a letter to my younger self from twenty years ago. I know, the whole concept of “time-travel” is mostly science-fiction, but it seems like a good exercise to re-evaluate my purpose in life. And these challenging times we live in now, seemed quite appropriate to try this task! So…here goes…

Dear 24-year-old me,

Hi, how’s the weather like in 2000?? It’s 2020 now and I’m writing to you from one of Auckland’s west-most corners!! You’re in that 1950’s bungalow with the flowery carpet aren’t you! Hope graduation was an exhilarating experience!! Remember that feeling when the Vice Chancellor handed you the certificate? It was one of the best moments of your life then wasn’t it?! Don’t ever forget that feeling!! Hold on to it because that will guide you through the years to come! I’m twenty years older and wiser than you were then, and believe me when I say this!! 

I’m not going to give you a detailed description of what is to come; that would be cheating. Instead I’m sharing some insights and hopefully giving a bit of inspiration for the journey forward. 

Firstly, I’m sharing with you something to help you with your health. It is only by truly listening to what your body is telling you, that you overcome all those diagnoses. Remember, you are your body’s healer, no-one else has control over it!! 

Next, your career path. All those dreams and plans you had, keep on believing in them. And don’t ever forget what makes you truly passionate!! Yes, the family think you’re a nerd and like to disappear into books, but keep reading!! I promise you it will all work out for the best. You know exactly what kind of navigator you wanted to be so keep your head high and believe that the stars will always point you to where you need to go. 

Now, your love life. This is tricky and somewhat difficult for me to give you insight into. All I can say is; trust your instincts! You have an inner voice that is louder than a Boeing 747, always believe in that and let her do the talking!! I know you let her stay silent throughout our childhood, but she can help in ways you can’t imagine! 

Future me likes exclamation marks a bit. Sorry about this!! See, I did it again! 

Next, your habits. Flexibility within your habits are always your choice. Remember this, your choice matters!! 

Okay, inspiration time now. You are an extremely courageous individual, and I believe that you will keep on being one. Life is one huge journey that everyone has to partake by themselves. And yours is truly magical. Always believe in this magic!! The obstacles you face, your failures, all those trips and falls, along with those sad feelings will become the sum of your life experiences. Live through them, face them head-on and you will find yourself at a turning point. Believe me, it gets better with time. Doors you can’t imagine will begin opening leading to a bright and amazing you!!

Well, 24-year-old me, it’s getting a bit late now. My head is drooping and I feel sleep rolling in. Without disturbing the space-time continuum, I’ll leave you with this final small word, you will always wake up to the soft glow of the sun creeping in and delight in the fresh air around us. Your family’s love and admiration for all that you are will always guide you home!!

All the best for the next twenty years, 

Lots of love and hugs,

Surani-at-44 (a.k.a Miss Mahee)

P.S. I know it’s confusing, and no, I haven’t changed our name!! All will make sense in due course so till then, take care 🙂

And so ends my letter to my younger self. To be honest, there were some cathartic tears that rolled down my face as I typed this up. If you aren’t too busy, you should try doing this when you have a free moment. It has helped me see this new world with a different perspective. Hope you enjoy your reading!

Miss Mahee