My dearest present self,              

As I pen these words, my heart is filled with love and admiration for the person you are today. You have come so far, and yet you have so much further to go. The journey ahead may be long and winding, but I know that you have the courage and strength to face whatever challenges come your way.

Dear present self, I know you are tired and it hurts. I know it feels like the earth has stopped revolving and all the light has been sucked by some black hole and all you are left with is darkness. I know you have questions, a head full of questions, and a mind full of What if, I know you feel that life has been really unfair to you and has done you an injustice. But, trust me, life is never meant to be easy. Above all, hold onto the belief that this too shall pass. These tough days might be testing your patience and your adaptability, but they are also giving you an opportunity to learn and grow. When things seem to be going bad, take a step back, breathe, and remind yourself of your strength.

I know you often find yourself caught in a cycle of saying “yes” to everything, fearing that refusal might disappoint or upset others. But, it’s time to shift the perspective and embrace the power of “no”. Remember saying “no” is not a rejection of others. It’s a prioritization of yourself. Saying no when necessary is not a sign of selfishness; it’s an act of self-care and self-respect. Self-care is not selfish. Embrace the journey you’re on. Life is full of ups and downs, but each experience shapes you into the remarkable person you are today.

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them. It’s through these moments that you grow and evolve. Remember to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Be proud of yourself and give yourself credit where it’s due. You deserve to be proud of yourself and all that you’ve accomplished. Embrace every moment, both the good and the bad, for they are all part of your story. In the midst of the hustle and bustle, remember to enjoy the journey. Take time to appreciate the little moments and find gratitude in the everyday. Life is an adventure, so embrace it with open arms.

Lastly, don’t forget to surround yourself with positivity and love. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and believe in you. You deserve to be surrounded by those who appreciate and support you for who you are. Keep shining, my incredible present self. The world is yours for the taking, and I have no doubt that you will continue to achieve amazing things. I’m here cheering you on every step of the way. Never forget that you are loved beyond measure. Can’t wait to see the incredible person you’ll become.

With love and admiration,

Your present self

By: Soyanka Khadka (Management, J2)