A college student reads an email received when she was 13 and is filled with kind advice
When contemplating the profound question of advising one’s younger self, we often overlook the possibility that our younger versions may possess wisdom worth sharing too. In 2016, an insightful event unfolded as 13-year-old Michelle Skidelsky employed FutureMe.org to send a pre-scheduled email to her future self, the recipient she did not know then. Fast forward to 2023, and Skidelsky, now a 20-year-old college student, finally received the message, touching the hearts of millions through a viral TikTok clip.
The letter began with the endearing words, “Dear Future Me…Hi! Did you miss me? It’s me, you!” Teen Skidelsky inquired about her aspirations, wondering if her older self still aspired to be a doctor or a psychiatrist. The response, however, revealed a change in path, as the present-day Skidelsky had become a communications major. Interestingly, her younger self intuitively sensed that mathematics was not their forte.
Amidst the positive sentiments, Teen Skidelsky offered words of consolation, acknowledging that life may have taken an undesirable turn at times yet reminiscing about the moments when it was everything she desired. The message overflowed with sweet encouragement, reminding the older version of her inherent beauty, awesomeness, and deserving nature, expressing pride in the potential for great achievements.
@michelleskidelsky i used futureme.org to do this!! dont let this fool you 13 year old me was rlly annoying
♬ original sound – michelle
The email contained humorous quips, too, playfully suggesting that intelligence could ebb and flow over time. And, in a touching gesture, Teen Skidelsky encouraged her future self to indulge in a donut. However, Adult Skidelsky later disclosed the poignant context behind this request, revealing her battle with an eating disorder during that period. The seemingly light-hearted gesture was an attempt to uplift her self-esteem with positive affirmations.
Revealing a heartwarming act of reciprocity, Skidelsky paid tribute to her younger self through a TikTok carousel, celebrating her as a true hero. At thirteen, she was characterized as “strong, resilient, and brave,” favoring white, choosing navy blue ties for her braces, and experiencing unrequited love for a friend, but ultimately finding love elsewhere. She harbored a desire to prove her intelligence to some unknown entity, embracing a passion for books, music, weekend sleepovers, cycling through her hometown, springtime, classroom games, and DIY room decor.
The profound realization that life’s chapters often unfold unexpectedly, leading to a deeper appreciation of our past selves, resonates with many. Usually, a newfound appreciation emerges when revisiting old photographs once deemed unappealing. Embracing self-love can be nurtured by infusing hope into our future, cultivating a sense of positivity for what lies ahead.
@michelleskidelsky Replying to @thefairygrandmother ♬ original sound – michelle
Contemplating the multifaceted nature of our identities, we find ourselves an intricate ensemble of various characters, each narrating their part in our life’s story without direct interaction. Yet, reaching out to one of our past co-stars through a letter to our future selves offers a fascinating possibility, potentially eliciting a smile in the coming years.
Indeed, wisdom knows no temporal bounds, and encountering our past selves through the lens of time adds a touch of magic to life’s journey. May we embrace this profound connection and continue to shape our future with hope and compassion.
Article Source: upworthy
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