Dear myself,
First of all, congratulations on making it this far in life! Have you forgotten that everyday is a blessing? Well, the whole "live your life to the fullest" cliché has a very real and powerful message. I hope you are reminded everyday that you are lucky to be alive. You woke up today because God isn't finished with you yet.
Now, you aren't a spring chicken anymore. So you need to take care of yourself. Staying healthy is a key factor to living a long life. Don't make excuses that you are too busy or too tired. Excuses are for the weak-minded.
If you have been self-centered recently, stop. The world doesn't revolve around you! Ask questions. Invest in the lives of those around you. Bring joy to those people and make them feel worthy of your attention.
"Be not afraid" is written in the bible many, many times. Don't forget it. It's short, but very sweet.
Now, have fun! Life is meant to be lived. Don't be scared, it will keep you from many adventures that are to be had. You will regret the times that you didn't say "yes" to trying something new. Take risks. Say "yes" to something you never thought you would do.
Remember how important it is to LISTEN. One of the best things you can do is listen to the people around you. In order to help, you can't always be talking. Give advice when necessarily, but always keep your ears open.
Volunteer during your free time. Don't let that be something you used to do, but something you always do. There are many people in the world that need your help. Your time, talent, and treasure. Be mindful of others, always.
As you are thinking of others, remember to not complain. Someone out there is dealing with something that is hard, too. Be grateful for the blessings in your life everyday that you find yourself taking for granted.
On another note, are you saving your money? Balance saving and spending. Use your money to travel. Sure, be smart with your money, but it is there to be spent. Plus, you can't take it with you when you die. So spend it wisely.
My last advice for you is simple. Be happy! Spread joy everywhere you go. You know that's what you are called to do. Life is too short to be anything but happy.
Sincerely,
the younger you
P.S. Remember how you used to be terrified of the future? Well, now you are there. And you're doing fine. God works for the good in your life and he has never failed you. He never will! Life has it's challenges. Life isn't easy. On the bad days, remember that if you didn't have a bad day, you wouldn't know that a good day was good.
