I feel like since I'm turning 30 the day after tomorrow, I should be posting some sort of reflective post, all about getting older and looking back on my life up until this point. The only thing that keeps running through my mind is what I'd like to say to my younger self at certain points in my life. So, I've written a few notes to my younger self and here they are:
July, 1996-- I am about to turn 16 and just started dating my first real boyfriend. If I could just write a quick note to 16 year old Taylor it would go like this:
Dearest Taylor,
You will not marry this boy. He's nice, he's fun and he will teach you many things. However, there is no need to take this relationship too seriously. You should instead take your homework more seriously and go to swim practice. Also, be nice to your parents. They may be a bit strict, but they will be there when you screw up 1000 times in your very near future.
Love,
Taylor in 2010
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May, 2001 Age: 20 The note to my lost little 20 year old self would go something like this:
Taylor,
There is no need to transfer to K-State. You will be no happier there than you are at ESU. You will not marry this boy. He's nice, he's fun and he will teach you many things. However, there is no need to take this relationship too seriously. If you go to KSU you will lose this boyfriend, your best friend from high school AND it will cost you tons of money. STAY AT EMPORIA. Major in Rehabilitation Studies, you will meet a professor of Rehab. that will change the course of your life. It would be good to meet him now, rather than later. Also, you've eaten too much cafeteria food. Go swim some laps!
Love,
Me
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May, 2004 Age: 23 At this point, I'm living in Kansas City and just starting my first real job after college.
Dear Taylor,
You don't know it right now, but you're pregnant. You should not marry this boy. He seems nice, he seems fun and he will teach you many things. However, there is no need to marry him. You will find out days after you marry this guy that you are expecting a baby. This guy is not nice, not fun and he will teach you many horrible lessons. It's okay that you're pregnant, but it will be much easier for everyone if you don't marry him. Remember how I told you to be nice to your parents? Well, they are about to save your life. It's time to be really nice to them.
Love,
Taylor
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May, 2005 Age: 24 At this point I am a single mom, living with my parents and starting a new job. Also, I have been talking to Tom on the phone every day for several months at this point. However, I've been keeping my feelings for him to myself.
Dear Taylor,
You will marry this guy. He is nice, he is fun and he will teach you many things. Marrying him will the best decision you will ever make. Be confident, you are not wrong about this one. Your life will soon be taking a turn for the way better. Be patient, be kind and don't screw it up. Also, you kick ass at the mommy gig! Loosen up though, everything and everyone are going to turn out just fine.
Love,
Me
3 comments:
Love these notes. It's weird what a little perspective gives us unfortunately too many years later.
I went to K-State too!
I could have told you that going to K-State would be a bad decision. JK! All the things we go through make us who we are. I hear that we will love our 30s because we get to be confident and benefit from all those tough lessons learned. Can't wait to enjoy the next decade with you!
Sarah, thanks for reading! It must be a small world. Were you there in 2001?
Melinda, KSU is good school, they just can't play basketball. haha
I can't wait to enjoy my 30s! I just wish there was a way to avoid some of the heartache it took to make it here.
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