Dear Future Me - gretchen huesmann

Do you ever write notes to your future self? When I’ve completed a task, a lesson plan, even a party, I’ll jot down thoughts for the next time around. I just know by the time I open a file a year later, I will never remember such details as “buy more forks” or “take two days for this lesson” or “don’t forget name tags!”

Reflecting on the year 2018, what would you tell the future you? What are some lessons, simple or profound, you know you’ll probably forget in the future?

Here are a few to get you thinking:

Dear Future Me:

In this new year be more flexible. You know things don’t always work out exactly as planned, so don’t sweat the unexpected. Add Proverbs 19:21 to your memory bank: “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails,” and embrace God’s better option.

Forgive sooner. You know you need to forgive eventually, so why not save yourself the heartache, energy and time that accompanies unforgiveness!? There’s a reason God tells us: “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” (Ephesians 4:26b) You can’t keep the sun from setting, but you CAN – with God’s help – forgive. (While you’re at it read Ephesians 4:31 until it sticks).

And in the same vein, show yourself more grace. Resist the old foe of perfectionism. Be willing to laugh at yourself, forgive yourself, and recognize your limitations. You are precious! Not because of what you’ve done, but because of who you are – a child of the King! And when you need reminding, Read 1 John 3:1 “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called the children of God.”

And just one more thing, Future Me, that you need to know. I’m tired as I write this. Do you know why? I didn’t rest enough in 2018. Please do yourself a favor and rest a little more often. What’s it going to take to remember this one? Sticky notes around the house? Bible verses (because there are a bunch). How about permission? Yep. You HAVE my permission to REST more. You won’t regret it.

Hey, Future Me, have a happy 2019! Love, Your Former Self

What will you tell your Future You?