Dear Younger Self,
I see you, bright, hopeful, and full of dreams. You carry joy in your heart, health in your body, and pride in your mind, certain of the great future that lies ahead. You delight in being among the best in class, racing to solve equations, and feeling confident that focus alone will guarantee success.
You sometimes wonder why others struggle, and you tell yourself they will barely make it because they spend time with friends, learning skills, or going to parties instead of burying themselves in books.But hear me: life is larger than grades.
Success is not only about being first in class or finding “x” before anyone else. Good grades open doors, yes, but what keeps them open are the relationships, skills, and wisdom you gather along the way.Learn to balance. Don’t despise those who spend time with friends, or who learn skills you think you don’t need. Pick up that guitar, touch that piano, join that club, lend a hand at church, volunteer at school. In serving and associating, you will discover the path your heart truly desires. It is in the company of people and in the practice of service that opportunities find you.
Sometimes, it is not your brilliance but the recommendation of a friend that will usher you into your dream.And remember, people are not always what they seem. Not everyone in church truly cares, and not everyone on the street with dreadlocks is a criminal. How people treat you often mirrors how you treat them. So, be wise. Be kind. Learn the difference between intelligence and wisdom.Above all, do not procrastinate. Do not let life find you unprepared.
As Rainer Maria Rilke once said, “We lead our lives so poorly because we arrive in the present always unprepared, incapable, and too distracted for everything.” Prepare now. Live fully now. Embrace every opportunity now.You are destined for greatness, but remember, greatness is not walked alone. It is built with healthy associations, strategic relationships, and a heart willing to serve.
With love,Your Older Self,Nsangou Rudolf.
Through the BBCam Letter-Based Mentorship Program,we curate letters from Cameroonians who advise their younger selves, hoping to inturn motivate someone somewhere reading.
We will be glad to receive your letter.Please send to [email protected]