Telha
Most teenagers dream of going to college, traveling the world, and forming lifelong friendships. Taylor Smith, a 12-year-old from Johnson City, Tennessee, was no exception. She cherished her time with family and friends and was a devoted fan of Doctor Who.
In April 2013, Taylor penned a letter to her future self, outlining her dreams and aspirations. She carefully placed it in a box in her room with the instructions: “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 12, 2023, only (unless said otherwise).”
Tragically, Taylor never had the chance to open her letter. Just months after writing it, she passed away due to complications from a sudden onset of pneumonia. Her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen Smith, were left devastated by the loss of their vibrant daughter.
While going through her belongings, they discovered the letter. Touched by its content and the wisdom beyond Taylor’s years, they decided to share it with the world, hoping her words could inspire and comfort others.
As Mary Ellen shared the letter, she wrote:
“I can’t physically resurrect her, I can’t bring her back, but I’m so grateful people have been inspired by her story.”
Below is the letter Taylor wrote to her future self, a beautiful reflection of her dreams, faith, and love for life.
Dear Taylor,
How’s life? Life is pretty simple right now (10 years in your past). I know I’m late for you, but as I’m writing, this is early, so: congratulations on graduating high school! If you didn’t, go back and keep trying. Get that degree! Are you (we) in college? If not, I understand. We do have pretty good reasoning, after all.
Don’t forget, it’s Allana’s 11th birthday today! Sheesh, 11 already? In my time, she just turned 1! I didn’t get to go to that party though, because I was in Cranks, Kentucky, for my first mission trip. I’ve only been back for six days!
Speaking of, how’s your relationship with GOD? Have you prayed, worshipped, read the Bible, or gone to serve the Lord recently? If not, get up and do so NOW! I don’t care what point in our life we’re in right now, do it! He was mocked, beaten, tortured, and crucified for you! A sinless man, who never did you or any other person any wrong!
Now, have you gone on any more mission trips? Have you been out of the country yet? How about on a plane?
Is Doctor Who still on the air? If not, what regeneration did they end it with? You should go watch some Doctor Who! Later, though—you gotta finish reading your own words of wisdom!
Do you have your own place yet? If we’re in college, what are we majoring in? Right now, I wanna be a lawyer.
Have you been to Dollywood recently? Right now, their newest attraction is the Wild Eagle. It’s so fun!
Also, I think I’m going to sell my iPad and buy an iPad Mini. Don’t forget to tell your kids that we’re older than the tablet! Attached, I also have a drawing of an iPad so you can show them.
Well, I think that’s all. But remember, it’s been 10 years since I wrote this. Stuff has happened, good and bad. That’s just how life works, and you have to go with it.
Sincerely,
Taylor Smith
Taylor’s words reflect the hopes, faith, and optimism of a young girl who was taken far too soon. Her letter continues to inspire many who come across her story.
If Taylor’s words touched your heart, share her story in her memory.
