A Letter to My Future Self
Lately I’ve been searching for some words of wisdom. I never thought it would come from the 22 year old version of myself.
Six years ago, I wrote a letter to my future self, and I finally had the opportunity to open it. The day I wrote this letter was one of the most powerful and self-reflective moments I have ever been through. Yet, I had forgotten just how impactful that experience was until now.
Dear Ashlynn,
First off let me say that I am so very proud of you. You’ve accomplished so much over the last 4 years. We or you I should say are sitting in the middle of Kairos Senior Week right now and this is probably the best day of the week…granted Commencement Ball hasn’t happened yet. But, back to what is more important. This letter is to remind you 5 years from now that despite whatever has occurred in your life, you are loved, you are so very LOVED. Always remember that this life is so very special and to appreciate the people around you. The future looks bright, but as you know, you are bound to go through a cycle of highs and lows. Try to find the beauty of life, no matter how challenging it may be. I don’t know where you will be in 5 years, but I hope that you are happy & thriving!
Today you have learned a lot about being your authentic self and what your definition of God is. I think you have been struggling with the latter for quite some time, but it is clear now that God’s presence is everywhere. He is in you and those around you. He is a verb, and through doing, being in the moment, loving, & purely existing, you are in a relationship with God.
Never give up your ability to love others and more importantly always remember to love yourself. You are not just enough, you are more than enough. Life is never easy, you know this, but it is always good to have a friendly reminder that you are a strong woman and confident in what you do. Try to remember this. Try to hold onto the valuable relationships in your life, and don’t be afraid to let go of the ones that no longer fulfill your definition of love. I Love You Always.
Love,
Ashlynn Dasha Fields
This letter came to me one year later than expected. But it turned out to arrive exactly when I needed it most. That is what is so remarkable about God’s timing. It's always worth the wait.
Big thank you to Molly Cooney for keeping it safe all this time. I hope in another 5 (or 6) years, I will reread it and be just as proud of myself then as I am right now.
