Most teenagers dream about going to college, exploring the world, and making lots of friends. Twelve-year-old Taylor Smith from Johnson City, Tennessee, was just like any other young dreamer. Taylor was surrounded by the warmth of her family and friends, and she absolutely adored watching Doctor Who.
These dreams and hopes for the future were something Taylor wrote about in a letter addressed to herself, crafted in April 2013. She placed it in a box with a note that read, “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 12, 2023, only (unless said otherwise).”
Sadly, Taylor’s vibrant dreams were cut short. Mere months after penning that letter, she was taken away by unexpected and severe pneumonia complications.
The heartache felt by her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen Smith, was unimaginable. The reality that their precious girl was gone was something they couldn’t fathom.
While sorting through Taylor’s belongings, they stumbled upon her letter. It touched them so deeply that they felt compelled to share it with the world, hoping it would bring comfort to others.
Mary Ellen, while sharing this heartfelt letter, expressed, “I can’t physically bring her back, but I’m grateful that people have found a sense of inspiration from her story.”
Below is the cherished letter Taylor penned to her future self.
Dear Taylor,
How’s life treating you? Life is quite simple right now, being 10 years in your past. I know I’m a bit late for you, but since I’m writing, this is early, so – congrats on graduating high school! If you haven’t yet, keep trying. Get that degree! Are we in college? If not, understand, we probably have some good reasons.
Don’t forget, it’s Allana’s 11th birthday today! Can you believe she’s 11 already? In my time, she just turned 1! I didn’t make it to her party, though, since I was in Cranks, Kentucky, for my first mission trip. I’ve only been back for six days!
By the way, how’s your relationship with GOD? Have you prayed, worshipped, read the Bible, or served the Lord recently? If not, get up and do it NOW! No matter what phase of life you’re in, remember He suffered for you! A blameless man, who never did anyone any harm!
Been on any more mission trips? Have you ventured outside the country yet? Or taken a plane ride?
Is Doctor Who still airing? If not, which regeneration ended it? You should watch some Doctor Who later, but first, finish reading these words of wisdom!
Do you have your own place yet? If we’re in college, what’s our major? Right now, I dream of being a lawyer.
Visited Dollywood lately? Currently, their newest ride is the Wild Eagle, and it’s exhilarating!
I’m thinking about selling my iPad to get an iPad mini. Don’t forget to tell your kids that we’re older than the tablet! I’ve even attached a drawing of an iPad for you to show them.
Well, that’s about it. Remember, it’s been 10 years since I wrote this note. Good and bad things happen. That’s life, and we must navigate it.
Sincerely, Taylor Smith
Such beautiful sentiments from a beloved soul who left this world too soon.
If Taylor’s words resonated with you as much as they have with us, consider sharing her story in her memory.