Dear Younger Me


Dear Younger Me,

I know it’s hard right now—growing a family, juggling responsibilities, and facing days that feel never-ending. You question yourself constantly, wondering if you’re doing anything right. You put on a brave face, acting like you’ve got it all together, and you even speak to others as if you do. But at night, when the world goes quiet, you lie awake—frustrated, unfulfilled, sad, and wondering why it seems so easy for everyone else.


You’re balancing a marriage, children, a job, and church, and it’s overwhelming. You’re constantly waiting for something to fall apart.


Still, there are moments of great joy when you look at your husband and children. Laughter is often the only thing that keeps you going. But deep down, you hide behind your family, hoping that if you stay invisible, no one will notice you’re crumbling under the weight of it all.


I remember when “Resentment” moved in, bringing along his friends “What If” and “Why.” They spoke to me daily, and I buried their words deep inside my heart.


As time went on, the idea of walking away began to feel right. I didn’t realize “Pride” had slipped quietly through the back door and made himself at home. Maybe he had been there all along, just waiting for the right moment to speak up. He whispered that I deserved more. Then “Insecurity” showed up too, convincing me that no one appreciated what I did—that if I left, no one would even notice.


So one Sunday afternoon—after church, of course—I walked away. Pride and Resentment pushed me out the door. I had no plan, only a feeling of “I’ll show them.” I gave no thought to the long-term impact, or even where I would go.


Here’s where things began to shift.


I began to realize that while I was drawn to the voice of truth—and I thought I knew everything about Him—the truth was, I didn’t really know Him. I called Him LORD, but I lived for myself, not for Him.


I know you’re wondering if I made it through. And I can say, “Yes, I did.” I’m turning 60 now. So far, I’ve made it. There have been so many lessons along the way. In my 30s and 40s, my career became a central focus, and once again, the voice of truth had to come rescue me. My life has been one of constant rescue—and I am incredibly thankful that He never gives up.


I foolishly thought my 50s would finally be about me. But they weren’t. Instead, it became a season of caring for my parents until they left this world. Then came a time of being cared for—by my sweet husband of over 40 years.


Now, 60 is upon me, and here’s what I wish I could have told me all those years ago:


You are only here for a short time. Enjoy every moment with the ones you love, and truly seek what is good for them—not for yourself. By loving and serving others, you will receive the greatest blessings known to man. It can be, and will be, exhausting—but it is worth it.


Don’t let Pride, Resentment, Selfishness, Unforgiveness, Jealousy, Comparison, or Insecurity take root in your heart. They will never bring you joy.


Most importantly, love the LORD your God with your whole being. Don’t just seek Him first—make Him the center of everything you do and everything you are. Let Him be the first one you speak to in the morning and the last one you whisper to at night. Read His Word daily, not to check a box, but to truly get to know Him, and understand the truth of how He rescues you.


You are the reason He came. He died and rose again for you.  He wants you to spend eternity with Him.


With all my heart,

Me (at 60)

Location: California, USA

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