353/365 You've Got Mail: A Letter From My Future Self

In all the hustle and bustle of planning my 365 celebration, preparing for summer teaching and trying to stay devoted to my daily creative (and the documenting that's become such a big part of the process), I nearly overlooked a big day! June 2nd was the "grand opening" date I set for my letter to my future self. To be honest, I didn't feel ready to open it today. The six months have flown by and I felt it would be a depressingly anticlimactic event. After some deliberating, I decided to trust the exercise, and at the very least, check on my progress. So I made myself a big mug of tea and settled in with an open mind.

Once the letter was opened, I knew it was exactly what I needed today. While I feel my creative goals need more time to brew, it was so good to reread my intentions and to find that I am knee deep in the work of growing my creative life. Though slow and steady, progress has been made. The happiest surprise was my tone in the letter. I had intentionally written it as if writing to a dear friend. It was SO positive and encouraging. Turns out I do know how to be nice to myself! It's like I'm always telling my students. When we use a kind tone of voice and choose our words carefully, people are more willing to listen. The theme of creating my happiness came through loud and clear.

So the letter has been resealed, stamped "return to sender" and postdated for another six months down the road. Thanks, Universe, for continuing to work your magic!

Perhaps it's because I'm nearing the end of my 365 project and beginning to see the bigger picture that my work is beginning to take on new meaning. This quote by Stephanie Vaughn is the second best thing I read today ;) Isn't it so true?...

"Sometimes an artist's first invention is herself."