The majority of kids aspire to attend college, explore the world, and have many friends. Taylor Smith, 12, of Johnson City, Tennessee, was no exception. Her days were spent with her family and friends, and she was a big fan of Doctor Who.
In an April 2013 letter to her future self, Smith outlined her ambitions. “To be opened by Taylor Smith only on April 12, 2023 (unless stated otherwise),” the letter was hidden in a box in her room.
She did not live long enough to see if her ambitions were realized. Taylor died just months after she penned that letter of complications from a sudden attack of pneumonia.
Her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen Smith, were devastated. Their little girl was no longer with them.
One day, they came across the note while sorting through her belongings. In an attempt to comfort others, they decided to publish it online because it moved them greatly.
Marry Ellen replied to her daughter’s letter, “I can’t physically resuscitate her, I can’t bring her back.”. “But I’m thankful people have been inspired by her story.”.
Below you will find Taylor’s letter and the words she wrote to herself.
Dear Taylor,
What’s up? Your life is pretty simple right now (10 years ago). Congratulations on graduating high school! I know I’m late, but as I’m writing, it’s early for you. Try again if you didn’t. Get your degree! Do you (we) attend college? I understand if you don’t. We have good reasons, after all.
Today is Allana’s 11th birthday! Wow, 11 already? She was just 1 when I was born!Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to attend the party because I was in Cranks, Kentucky on my first mission trip.. I’ve only been back for six days!
How’s your relationship with GOD? Recently, have you prayed, worshipped, read the bible, or served the Lord? If not, get up and do it now! It doesn’t matter where we are in our lives right now, do it! For you, he was mocked, beaten, tortured, and crucified! The sinless man who never did you or anyone else any harm!
Have you been on any more mission trips since then? Have you traveled outside the country yet? How about on a plane?
Is Doctor Who still on the air? If not, what regeneration did they end it with? You should go watch some Doctor Who! Later though, you gotta finish reading your own words of wisdom!
Do you have your own place yet? If we’re in college, what are we majoring in? Right now, I wanna be a lawyer.
Have you been to Dollywood recently? Right now, their newest attraction is the Wild Eagle. It’s so fun!
Also I’m thinking of selling my iPad and buying an iPad mini. Don’t forget to tell your kids that we’re older than the tablet! I have attached a drawing of an iPad you can show them.
That’s all I have to say. It’s been 10 years since I wrote this. Stuff has happened, good and bad. That’s just how life works, and you have to go with it.
Sincerely, Taylor Smith
0 Comments