The other day my friend, Trish, handed me a book she had read by Gayle King. The book, Notes to Self, is actually not written by King at all. It is a compilation of “letters to my 12-year-old self” written by various well-known personalities. Apparently, Ellyn Spragins wrote something similar 10 years earlier.

As I read a few of the letters last night, I couldn’t help but think about what I would write to my younger self. I know I would tell her to embrace the incredible work ethic she learned from her parents-it will be why you are successful and a source of tremendous pride. I would tell her to embrace her very humble upbringing as it will be a critical part of what drives her and she should be proud of it. I would tell her not to wish that the challenging parts didn’t happen, she will need all of what she learns from each one. And finally I would tell her to keep God close at all times, it will be her moral compass and a source of immense comfort.

What would you write to your 12-year-old self? I will continue to give my letter more thought. I would love to compile a booklet of these letters for my children as well as my nieces and nephews from all their aunts and uncles. I hope you write a letter. Be sure to pass it on. I, for one, would love to read it.

With Gratitude,
Beth