Our writers group recently did a project where we had to ‘write a letter to your younger self’ in 500 words or less. Brevity was never my strong point so this proved to be something of a challenge to me, especially considering the subject. Here is my letter, perhaps it might inspire you to do the same. If you do, I’d love it if you would post them below, or even a link to them on your own blog site. Anyway, here goes…
Dearest Olivia,
You are no accident. You are a welcome thread in the intricate fabric of the universe. There is a cavernous longing inside of you to know your origins, but you will not yearn forever. A time will come when you will reunite with your birth family, and discover you are descended from eastern Emperors, Frankish kings, signers of the American constitution, and a woman whose joie de vivre matches your own! You have leadership running through your DNA. With it comes great responsibility. Throughout life you will find people turning to you to lead them in all kinds ways. Don’t rush to take up the mantle. Just because you can lead, doesn’t mean you always should.
Don’t be afraid of your emotions. Let your feelings become your friend. They are like little people living inside your head, helping you navigate through life. One day Disney will make a fantastic film about them, but until then let me introduce you. First there is joy. When you feel joy you will want to be creative. Write, do crafts, make music. You may not be growing up in a family that likes to knit, sew, and bake, but you love to do these things. Find others that do too, and stick to them like glue.
Don’t be afraid of being sad. Cry until your teddy bear looks like he has had a bath if you need to. Don’t stuff it inside of you and become depressed. Tears are cleansing. Tears are good. Sadness is often a way of saying goodbye to the old so that we can embrace the new.
Life can sometimes be frightening. Fear can grip us and try to take over. Listen to fear, but do not let him rule. Fear helps you look at what is in front of you, not what has passed, and not what may or may not be around the bend.
You will sometimes also feel disgust. I know, the first things that spring to mind are vegetables, but I don’t just mean broccoli. Disgust also helps you avoid things which may cause you harm, like drugs, cigarettes, and violent films. Listen to your intuition. Let disgust show you where it is safe to go.
Finally there is anger. He is a tough little man who blows his top. I know you don’t like him but do make friends with him. He is a useful voice inside your head to let you know what you don’t like about the world. He is the voice that can bring about positive change. When you feel angry, go for a walk or speak to your teddy. Stomp if you need to, especially in large muddy puddles!
Never be ashamed of yourself. You are a beautiful, intelligent, and kind little lady. Take things one day at a time. Enjoy the journey, and do not be in such a hurry to arrive. Above all else, allow yourself to shine.
All my love…
Liv
Now it’s your turn. Have fun with it! Don’t forget to show me what you come up with. I can’t wait to see them!
If you enjoyed reading this from Olivia then you might be interested in The Time Turner
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