I met my younger self for coffee
Hey, long time no talk! I told you when I started this newsletter, I’d only write when it felt right—and today, it does.
While most of the trends on social media aren’t really my jam, there’s a new one going around about what you’d say if you met your younger self for coffee. So I went on a little date . . .
I met with my younger self for coffee today. She arrived with two small children, even though she was just a child herself. I arrived alone, knowing that those two children are now strong women making the world a better place.
She ordered a water, even though she wanted a coffee, but she couldn’t afford the extra expense. I ordered a coffee and paid for the woman behind me, because I’m grateful to be able to give a little extra when I can.
She asked if we ever finished college and became a teacher. I showed her not only all of our years of teaching in a classroom, but all the teaching we had done in the world of fitness as well.
She asked me if we would ever find true love. I told her all about my husband and the beautiful life and relationship we’ve created together, and how safe and loved we feel in his presence.
She looked happy on the outside, but you could tell it wasn’t how she felt within. I shared with her that one day she’d find inner peace and experience true joy.
She told me she felt like she had to pretend to be perfect. I reminded her perfection is in the eye of the beholder, and that the only way to live is to simply be yourself.
She left the coffee shop in a hurry; she had a double shift of bartending to get to. I encouraged her not give up; that her life would unfold in so many more wonderful ways than she could possibly imagine.
She couldn’t even picture my life today. And yet none of it would have been possible without her.
Moral of the story, however unbearable life may seem in the moment, this too shall pass. And all that perceived struggle—that overwhelming sense of urgency, pain, agony, and despair—will fade. And in its place will remain the very light you need to shine away the dark.
So, whatever you may be going through right now, may this be a gentle reminder to let in the light. Have faith that no matter how hopeless or impossible life may seem, all things are lessons giving you the strength you need. All you have to do is trust and receive.
With love,
Danielle