A Letter To My Future Self

Dear Future Self, Hello! How are you? What is life like for you now? Did you accomplish what you wanted to? Was I right to conclude, at now 28, That the experiences you went through Have brought you to a special place Where your dreams can start to come true? I know dear Future Self That a letter you cannot return. But take a moment to reflect on life. See how much you have come to learn! Right now, you plan that in your 30's You'll start on a charitable trek. Your aim is to help people with poetry To keep their self esteem in check. It's a source of sadness to your core That some turn to a harmful means to cope. " One suicide is one too many! " You say. But this results when some lose all hope! Though not yet out of the woods Society's war against Covid is strong. Very soon this will be part of history. Observations will be made on actions right and wrong. Though this is part of your distant past, Have other major diseases arisen? Did you ever manage to set yourself free From that inner prison? Do you still remember your favourite teachers? Mrs Wright taught you when you were 9. Her favourite animal was the camel. She played the piano. You thought her sublime! And what about your English teachers, Mrs Wilson, Miss McAllister from Rathfriland High? They encouraged you to pursue your writing. They commended your every try. Do you remember Mrs Chalmers Whose support was beyond compare? She always made the time to listen And assured you of her care. Little did you realise when at school That not only would they leave their mark! They'd find lodging in your memory And own a special room each in your heart. A lot of soul searching has gone on In this year of your life. For the moment you opt to remain single. You're still not ready for all the duties of a wife. You help your Nana and Grandad... A cuppa tea here, a bit of shopping there. You daily try, even in small ways, To leave them in no doubt of your affection and care. After all, they've done so much for you! They've been a second mum and dad. They've supported you through thick and thin. They've been there for all times, even the bad. You pack eggs in a hen house. Did your career change? How and when? As you glance over the decades to follow, Would you live this life again? I hope I've made you proud of yourself! Or at least feel satisfied. I hope you've kept true to yourself And that you've not hardened inside. It's with all sincerity dear Future Self That my younger you signs off, says, " Goodbye! " All my warmest wishes dear Future Self. ( Don't be a softy! Do not cry! ) Written 17th September 2021 For The Letter To Your Future Self Contest Sponsor - Silent One