A letter from December 15th, 2020

Dear FutureMe, First of all, it’s 11:34am, on December 15, 2020. That means Christmas is closing in, the season of online shopping! Yes, we’re all still in quarantine with terrible mental health and somewhat of a social life, because that’s all everyone’s got these days to be honest. I’m getting a bunch of plushies of anime characters, that’s my new thing for some reason, but at least they’re super cute. You’re probably not begging your mom for toys, but also, remember to treat yourself, even if you don’t deserve it (which you probably do, you’ve come a long way). Anyways, how’s school? By then, quarantine must be over, and I must be in college. Hopefully, I would’ve finally cut my hair already. Who are my main friends? Any love interest? It must be hard in school, by now I would be done with the first semester of college, I think. I wonder where I’d go, considering I barely even know who or what I want to be when I grow up. Right now, I’m thinking of becoming a teacher. It’d be fun to teach college students, but at the same time, it would be nice to help little kids grow up and become good people. My plans for college are pretty vague; I want to move out if I can afford it, and either become a teacher or a doctor. I don’t think I’d be happy as a doctor, but I also know teacher’s are often underpaid, and I like money. Right now, I love anime, frogs, ice cream, and the colors gray and green. I listen to a bunch of different music, but I love Sir Chloe and Mother Mother. I don’t think I have a favorite song, we both know how indecisive I am. I love nature, especially the sky, and want to have a little frog or brown cat when I grow up. I know my interests will have shifted a lot, but hopefully I’ll still love music and anime. Also, you better learn the drums and get a skateboard; I don’t see a future where I’m a total badass without those. How do you dress? I don’t really have a style to be honest, but I live in hoodies and jeans. Five years from now, you’re probably very stressed and overwhelmed with bills and school and anything else that might be going on. Hopefully, you won’t need a thirteen year old reminding you to drink water and take care of yourself, and that things will always turn out okay. You’re a total god, treat yourself like one. The world can be whatever you want it to be, and if it’s boring, act like you’re the main character of this dull little story (which you are). Go on some random adventure, go to starbucks and give the longest, hardest-to-pronounce name. Go to the library and ask for the most concerning book you can think of, then go to the nearest store (preferably CVS or Walmart) and buy gasoline, a lighter, and a “Sorry for your loss” card, that’d be hilarious. Act like the world is yours to play with, because that’s a much more exciting way to look at life, isn’t it? Do every single reckless thing possible (but don’t be too stupid, and mom said no drugs and stuff), because you are not a super boring adult. I know myself, I know me in five years is gonna be the coolest person alive. If you haven’t done any of this stuff, wake up!! Get up and do it, but don’t get depressed if you haven’t had the time or energy to do so, it happens. I just don’t want me sitting around and doing nothing when I have a life to live. Also, don’t be so dry or boring when you text people, act confident and act like you’re super funny and popular. I don’t see a reason against being the coolest person alive, do you? I didn’t think so. Also, hopefully the world isn’t still a floating sphere of melting garbage. I’m sure things will turn out okay. Right now I’m a little stressed with finals, but I’m sure I’ll do fine. The whole point of high school is preparing you for college, so know that you’ve come a long way. Whether it’s finding yourself, or finding a life that suits your recklessness and impulsiveness. If I’m being honest, I don’t want to mature too much. Old people are too boring and you’re eighteen now, live a little. Also, do one thing for your past self if you haven’t already: go on that road trip. I love stargazing and I better be a great driver by then, cause I love road trips too. If you’re in a tough spot right now, nature’s always seemed like an escape for me, or some sort of distraction from all my problems. Just step back and take a breather. You got this. I don’t want to take up too much of your time, and I don’t really wanna have so many expectations for the future either; wherever life takes me is where I’ll go, and I’ll make it work, no matter what. I also don’t have a ton of questions for that same reason. But, I do suggest you get that skateboard and that hair cut, and you better be taller, too. I’m really short and it sucks. Also, a friendly reminder that you’re an adult and can do whatever you want. Hopefully college will turn out to be much better than I think it will, the same happened for high school. Much love, The shorter version of you