If given the opportunity to encourage or even warn the younger you, would you take it? What would you say? What lessons would you share with the younger you that you wished you had learned at that age? I decided to have a conversation with teenager Me and am inviting you to read this journal entry that I wish I could have sent to Younger Me. My hope is that these words to teenager Me will provide some wisdom and encouragement for everyone reading this. Enjoy!
Dear Younger Me,
You are about to embark on the greatest and craziest decade of your life. Life has been pretty rewarding so far, but you have not seen the future! For one, the plans you have right now will not work out exactly how you have envisioned - and that’s a good thing! Remember our verse: “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9 ESV) This will ring true throughout the years.
Be ready to step outside of your comfort zone, friend. Your introverted personality will be tested as you encounter dozens of students and their families. You will be blessed with the opportunity to speak life into them on a weekly basis. Do not have a “Jonah” moment and run away from this calling! You will grow in tremendous ways and you will meet some of the greatest people in your life. Remember to use your God-given gifts responsibly. Be forward-thinking (while we are on the topic, go ahead and invest in video communication technologies. You’ll thank me later). Don’t be afraid to think outside the box!
In early 2020, you will experience the greatest challenge to your ministry. Life as you know it will drastically change for everyone. Don’t be alarmed! God is still God and you are in God’s Hands. Yes, you will have to endure this great challenge, but it will also initiate greater opportunities to connect with others in very creative ways (Oh, by the way, your little flip-phone will be a thing of the past, and you can also say goodbye to that Myspace account). You will be called upon to step up and help others. Don’t be afraid of the unknown, but rather embrace it! The Spirit that lives within you will guide you and keep you and others steady.
Remember the psalmist’s words: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4 ESV) The grace and love of God will forever sustain you.
Lastly, you will learn and live out life-changing lessons that, if adopted now, might save you some trouble. To help you out, here is the list of David’s Seven Maxims:
- Relationships are vital--both vertically (God) and horizontally (people). Keep them healthy!
- Blessings from God are not meant to be kept for yourself. Share what God has given you whenever possible.
- Don’t ever put pineapple on pizza. You don’t need that confusion in your life!
- Learn from those who came before you. They have life-experience and wisdom that you do not.
- Take care of yourself (mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually) every single day. Don’t be afraid of the “mani-pedi” combo!
- Stand by your convictions, but still learn from other views. On a related note, don’t take Facebook (or any social media platform) too seriously!
- Never forget who you are and WHOSE you are. You are a child of God!
Your Biggest Fan,
Older You
There you have it! What do you wish you had known 10, 25, 50 years ago? In this uncertain season of life, perhaps this is a good time to reflect on how far God has brought you along and the lessons you have learned throughout your journey. In addition, this season is also an opportunity to keep learning and growing! There is still much we can learn in the months and years ahead. What might Older You want to tell you now?
David Moore
Edited by the Gerk family :)