Have you ever heard the song Dear Younger Me by MercyMe? I had an opportunity to see them perform while on a Love Like You Mean It, cruise. Yes, we are those people. We’ve done quite a few cruises such as the Disney cruise and even a Fit-Fun cruise! I won’t mentioned that I put on seven pounds on the fitness cruise—who does that?! I blame the spirits, lol.
Well, in the song, Dear Younger Me, he contemplates what he would say to his younger self if given the chance. Have you ever thought about this?
What would you tell your younger self? Would your goal be to help your younger self avoid pain? Or maybe you’d want your younger self to have more courage and try more adventures? Going back in time isn’t possible, but when we write a love note to our younger selves, we can keep that as a reminder when life feels hard or when life throws us curveballs.
Will you try it? I will! Here’s my love note to pre-teen Kati.
Dear Kati,
You don’t have to hide who you are or your feelings. You don’t always have to be strong—or have the answers. You are made to be authentic. You were made to seek strength outside of yourself. Trust God and His plan for your life. Don’t believe the lies about your worth. You are beautiful—perfectly created for a purpose. You don’t have to settle for less than you deserve. You are wonderful just as you are. You don’t need food or drugs for comfort. You are capable of so much. When you start believing, you will accomplish more than you ever thought possible. You will discover that you cannot do anything alone, so remember to stay humble, kind, and compassionate. You will go through hard things, but it will all make sense someday. Those hard things will shape you and sanctify you. This life is a journey. Take your time and enjoy every little blessing and miracle you experience. There will be many. And finally, I want you to keep the faith. Never give up. You’ll want to quit when things feel too heavy—too unbearable for one person. But do not lose heart. You are never alone no matter how isolated life can feel. You will always have the Lord. Blessed are those that find their refuge in Him. Blessed are you, Kati. You are chosen, accepted, and loved. Believe it and spend every day making sure the people in your life believe it too.
We Can’t Change the Past
I realize that we cannot change what has already taken place. But someday the season we’re in right now will become “a long time ago.” How will that effect our future? What choices in mindset and behavior will we make today that will impact our tomorrow?
My hope is, we remember the same truths we express to ourselves in our note. That we would live fearlessly and with tremendous love, joy, hope, and peace. We will get through every trial. We will experience the goodness of life. There’s a lot to look forward to. I will choose to live expectedly for good things. Will you join me?
Until next time,
Stay Strong & Be Inspired
