January 1st, 2018

Dear Seven-Year-Old Me,

As I’m writing this letter to you, I’m currently at a particular crossroads in my life. You will encounter your fair share of these. You see, I’ve just left my place of employment and embarking on a new adventure. To be honest, I’m excited, scared, concerned but very happy. I’ve reached a point in my life where I can no longer just settle for the ordinary. I’ve reached a point where I have to fulfill my purpose. I can hear you now asking me “What’s does purpose mean?”. Well my dear, it’s that very thing that you always find yourself doing without effort, it’s that thing that you can do even after having had very little sleep, it’s that thing that lights up your heart and your soul. That’s purpose and that’s where I’m at. By time you reach my age, you would have fulfilled seasons of working your purpose but now, you are fully committed to owning it. I reflect back on all those things that I could of, would of and should of but I hopefully still can. You my dear, you’ve got the rest of your life ahead of you. Make every moment count and know that everything does serve a purpose, both the good and even the bad.

You will encounter moments of trials, challenges and temptations. It’s very important to get to know GOD and keep him close. He’s not like Santa where you don’t get your wishlist because you’ve messed up. He’s actually so much more – he’s soooooo loving and gracious and sometimes, he will even give you the desires of your heart even in spite of your mess-ups. That doesn’t mean, you

should take him for granted but instead recognize his deep love for you. He will help you like none other. He will help you in school, life decisions and even the simple things like getting a parking spot closest to the Mall doors. Not always but sometimes. He’s with you always, in both the big and the small. He will show you truth even when you can’t identify it in others. He will protect and provide. He will never leave you nor forsake you. The best advice that I can recommend is for you to talk to him daily. It’s really no more deeper than having a conversation. That’s it – having a daily conversation with him but remember to stay quiet to hear his voice. He will talk back to you in a way that is personal to you. When he guides and gives you instructions, remember to listen and follow what he has guided you to do. That will help ease the road and soften any unnecessary heartache.

You may not listen to any of this but because I care, I want you to know what I’ve learned. Another pearl of wisdom – never ever give up! You got that from your Dad and your determination will serve as an incredible life tool. Don’t give up but do know when to step aside. Not everything is meant for you! Spend time understanding what you are good at and where you need to improve. Here’s a hard truth you are going to learn. Not everyone in the world will celebrate you but you can also learn valuable insight from these individuals. Some may even try to hold you back. Some won’t see past the colour of your skin. Not everyone is going to be like your friends on the

playground, at school. It just means you are going to have to be ten times better, ten times stronger and ten times more determined. Remember, quiet strength is sometimes more powerful. You got that from your mother. It’s very important to know yourself because people will try and shape you to be what they want you to be, for their purposes. When you know yourself, your limitations and your strengths – you are unstoppable! Be exceptional but it’s okay to make mistakes, as long as they are the kind of mistakes that you can recover from. You can learn from your mistakes – simply reflect on them, dust off and keep it moving.

Lastly, do as much as possible and take advantage of every opportunity. Travel all over the world, particularly when you are young because believe it or not, you will eventually slow down. You will find that as you get older, you can’t bounce-back like you used to. With that being said, you aren’t ever too old to do anything, unless your body says otherwise. If you don’t understand that now, you will in time! It’s very important to pursue your life’s desires. Don’t get too distracted, particularly by boys. They are cool to hang around with but sometimes the excitement of love can blind us. Remember, listen to GOD’s voice, he will guide you and show you the truth.

I want the best for you and I believe that you will make the right choices but always be true to yourself. Your soul and your spirit will never guide you wrong.

Love your Older Self