A letter from February 18th, 2018

Dear FutureMe, Greetings! It’s Past Me. Long time no talk! So, I really have no idea what you’re up to. Ok, scratch that, I do know some things. You’re teaching people somewhere in some capacity. For real, that’s your calling and your passion. Did you think that you could ever give that up?? I know that whether you’re still in the great state of West Virginia or you are somewhere else in the world, you’re helping people and impacting lives. That is what gives you life. Let me remind you of some other things that give you life: music. I hope that you’re still jamming on the guitar in your room for just your own ears because you love it. Nature. I hope that you still make time to go for hikes in all seasons, go sledding, go skiing, roll down grassy hills, all that. People. You are one of those extroverted-introverts who loves people deeply. Yes, you need your alone time, but you are also inspired and rejuvenated by deep conversations about life, the universe, and everything. Even when life is crazy busy and stressful, don’t stop reaching out. Don’t stop making time for people—people are always worth your time. Always, always, always. Christ. You know that He is the center. He is everything. He is beauty. He is truth. He is purpose. He is love. He is life. He is your sustainer. He is faithful. You know that no matter what happens, you are secure in his love. Whatever life throws at you will never swamp you, will never overcome you, will never crush you because everyone else will let you down and hurt you, but He will never leave you. Pursue him above all. Self, you’re terribly flawed like everyone else, but you are also amazing. Christ loves your flawed, impulsive, prideful, myopic self more than words can explain, and nothing is going to change that. I’m so excited that you are wiser and have gone through more life with Christ than Past Self because that means that you have even more stories of his faithfulness and love to you. I’m honestly excited to meet you, Future Self, because I don’t know where you’ll be or what you’ll be doing exactly, but I know who you are: You are Loved. Hugs, Past Self