My counseling colleague in PA, AnnMarie, checks on me periodically. Recently, she told me that it's part of her self-care routine to call people (like me) on her way home from work.
It feels so honoring, to be someone's self-care;
my nervous system relaxes around people like AnnMarie.
As I move forward, I continue to look back and reflect on where I've been and on how I've shown up for others as a joy bringer, a hope dealer, a compassionate cheerleader and trusted friend.
As a part of today's reflection, thoughts for my future self:
Dear Future Self,
If you’re reading this, time has quietly marched on; I pray that it has been kind to you. I'll bet you paused before opening this letter, even if only for a breath, because you know how much that pause matters.
I’m writing to remind you of who you were when the future still felt really far away. You believed in showing up with kindness even when it wasn't returned. You believed that small, faithful steps mattered more than grand, boisterous gestures. You chose integrity, even when it cost more than you wanted to pay.
I hope you still listen mindfully. To people. To silence.
To that inner nudge that patiently persists.
When you’ve stumbled, I hope you've forgiven yourself quickly. I know how you've struggled with this, but you always grew most when you showed yourself the same grace you so generously gave to others.
When you’ve succeeded, I hope you felt a humble pride about the ripple effects of your heart work. What mattered most was never recognition, but impact—especially the kind you may never fully see.
Please don’t forget what brings you joy: Faith. Family. Friends.
Connecting. Serving. Encouraging. Speaking. Baking. Napping.
Protect treasured moments of calm in the chaos.
They are not extras; they are essential.
Most of all, remember that your worth was never tied to productivity, approval, or perfection. You were enough long before you checked the next box or reached that coveted milestone. You will always be enough.
Be gentle with yourself. Be bold when it counts. Be a lighthouse for others.
And keep choosing love, your true north.
With love, hope and trust,
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I really enjoy hearing from my readers; thanks for sharing your reflections with us!