That is why we are not discouraged. Our bodies are dying, but God makes our spiritual life strong and new every day. 2 Corinthians 4:16, English Bible for the Deaf

 

Over the past few months, a particular trend has emerged on social media: I met my younger self for coffee. The idea is to imagine how a coffee date with your younger self would go and what you would tell them about how you’ve changed and grown over the years.

 

Imagine sitting down for coffee with a younger version of yourself. What stories would you share? What experiences would you testify to? And, most importantly, how would you feel about the things you tell your younger self? Are there regrets? Are there moments of pride?

 

There may be a few extra kilograms on your body, maybe some wrinkles or grey hairs. Can you say that you’ve taken care of your health or have you let yourself go?

 

Maybe you have your dream job or perhaps you don’t enjoy what you do at all.

 

Would you tell your younger self about the importance of a happy family and strong relationships, or would you have to admit that those once-special bonds have crumbled?

 

Are you comfortable with who you are? Far removed from the insecure teenager who sometimes felt bullied. Do you feel lonely or can you testify to having wonderful friends and colleagues who bring colour to your life?

 

Are you closer to God or much further from him than you were years ago? Can you tell your younger self that God has walked with you and that you have witnessed his love and grace? Can you reassure your younger self – who may have wondered and doubted about the future – that you are okay and at peace with the choices you’ve made? And if you feel disappointed about certain decisions or things that didn’t go as planned, have you picked yourself up again? Have you dusted yourself off and tried again?

 

Take a moment to reflect. What would your younger self love to hear? What would reassure and bring them joy?

 

Prayer: Lord, guide me in making decisions that draw me closer to you and help me live a life that my younger self would be proud of. Help me to see each day as a new opportunity to improve my life. Amen.