Dear Future Me: This is my advice…continue to trust your wisdom. When people talk fast, listen slowly. You have learned that the hard way. Look for the unexpected, mystical signs of how your life is intended to keep unfolding, be it the next adventure or making a new friend. Continue to appreciate the lessons you have learned and at long last stay away from people wanting YOU to learn their lessons for them.
My Precious Past Self: I never want to forget how deeply loved I was by my parents of blessed memory. I never want to forget how remarkable it was for my sister and I to be raised in such a creative household with its festive version of normal! I loved that I felt my life was going to be special and it was my secret to use as fuel to keep me energized. This burning light allowed me to stumble upon wonderful adventures that were all around me growing up in New York City.
To My Wiser Present Self: I appreciate the teachers I have encountered along the way. Teachers can show up in the most surprising forms but what I’ve learned is that G-d wants you to learn your individual lesson at last. You may resist out of immaturity or willfulness but the spiritual surrender at long last is where courage and wisdom show up.
This life is a gift and a chance. A chance to learn what is yours to be learned. Life also reveals its true gifts. In my experience courage, gratitude and joy are the sustaining gifts in one’s life. I appreciate those spiritual building blocks more with each year.
Melissa Manchester is a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and actress. www.melissamanchester.com
