Back to the Future

Dear Future Suzzy, Ivan is making me write this. Frankly, it freaks me out. This is some sort of time warping crazy bullshit you see on the Discovery Channel at 2am. Anyway, I'm not going to expect you to have accomplished anything in particular. I believe in you (me...whoever). I know you're doing well and very happy; I would expect nothing less. Are you saving the world? You always said you would. If you're not already doing that or still taking steps toward it, you need to re-evaluate. I'm only 21 right now. You're 26. You shouldn't lose the idealist and enthusiasm I have now. I don't expect you to be a watered-down version of the amazing badass world-saver I am, but...I don't know...I guess I'm scared for you (for us). I want you to stay true to our beliefs in social justice. Did you go to grad school? Was it at IU? I'm still madly in love with Ivan. Are you back together with him? I sure hope so. If you're not, are you with someone else who is even more wonderful? Are you married? Holy cow, that would be cool. Babies? WHOAAA this is weird. You're an entirely different person. I need to wrap this up; it's getting a bit too Twilight Zone for me. I'll leave you with this poem which always reminded me of my minimum requirements: To Have Succeeded To laugh often and love much: To win respect of intelligent people And the affection of children; To earn the approbation of honest critics And endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty; To find the best in others; To give one's self; To leave the world a little better, Whether by a healthy child, A garden patch, Or redeemed social condition; To have played and laughed with enthusiasm And sung with exultation; To know even one life has breathed easier Because you have lived... This is to have succeeded. -Ralph Waldo Emerson Love God; love yourself; love everyone around you; love what you do; show God's love in all you do. Good luck with everything! -Suzzy, March 3, 2008