At the end of this month I will no longer be able to stretch the claim in my head that I'm in my early-thirties. I'll be turning 36, which is the only age I've ever dreaded. It distresses me. (Both the number and the fact that I feel this way.) I've never been one to set much stock in the idea that age is a relevant label, a limiting factor, or more than just a number. And contrary to the opinion of my children, I don't think I'm "old." So I'm surprised to find myself in this position. However, I think I've found a meaningful way to say goodbye to 35.
The first blogger I liked enough to follow was Hollywood Housewife. I found her a couple of years ago through a comment she left on a post about writing well online. I quickly realized that not only did I enjoy her topics, personality, and style; I respect the way she talks about hard and sensitive topics and shares some parts of her life that aren't so glittery. Although the glittery parts are sure fun to read about (!), I find it refreshing when people are honest about the rest of it, too.
This year she is setting personal monthly challenges for herself. Right now she is writing (and mailing) 30 letters to people in her life. Her idea has inspired me to do the same.
As I'm feeling so unsettled about my increasing age, I think writing 35 letters will be a good chance for me to reflect positively on my life. I'm looking forward to communicating some things that have never been said, and reminding others of the meaningful moments of kindness and influence they've provided that they may not be aware of.
I've sketched out a list and, man, 35 is a lot of people! To fulfill my quota, a fair portion of them will be to family members, telling them how important they are to me. There will also be some letters sent of apology, gratitude, respect, and reminders of fun times shared.
One thing I'm having trouble with is the fact that many of them aren't part of my life anymore. My intention in these instances is not necessarily to rekindle friendships, but to express what a difference they've made to me. I guess we'll see how it plays out.
I'll be taking the next couple of months to do this. I'm not in a rush. I'll be sharing some of the letters here on the blog, along with any responses I may receive. While I don't have many specific expectations for this, I'm looking forward to any unexpected results this project might bring about.
Have you ever written letters to people from your past? Is there someone you'd like to send one to?
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