Most teenagers have big dreams – going to college, traveling the world, and making lifelong friendships. 12-year-old Taylor Smith from Johnson City, Tennessee was no different. She loved spending time with her family and friends, and had a special fondness for watching Doctor Who, her favorite show. In April 2013, Taylor penned a letter to her future self, outlining her hopes and aspirations. She placed the letter in a box in her room with a clear instruction: “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 12, 2023 only (unless said otherwise).”
Little did Taylor know that she would not live long enough to see her dreams come true. Tragically, just months after writing the letter, Taylor passed away from complications due to pneumonia. Her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen Smith, were devastated. They couldn’t fathom the reality that their beloved daughter was gone forever.
As they sorted through Taylor’s belongings one day, they stumbled upon the letter. Its contents moved them deeply, and they decided to share it online, hoping to bring solace and inspiration to others who might be going through similar experiences. Along with the letter, Mary Ellen wrote, “While I can’t bring my daughter back to life, I am incredibly grateful that her story has touched so many lives.”
The following are the heartfelt words that Taylor wrote to her future self:
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 6 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
These words from a young angel, taken from her family too soon, are truly beautiful and touching. If Taylor’s words have resonated with you like they have with us, please share her story in her memory. Let’s keep her spirit alive through the power of her words.
