Who doesn’t enjoy participating in a trend? Admittedly, I usually refrain, but this one has compelled me to join in.
The internet brims with messages from individuals reaching out to their 100-year-old selves. Some are more intriguing than others, but the endeavor of writing to one’s future self is thought-provoking, even if most of us won’t live long enough to actually read our letters.
So, what do I wish to convey to you, my future self? In truth, there’s likely nothing about me that you don’t already know. Thus, the essence of this letter is hope—hope for your happiness and health. Hope that your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren still carve out time to visit you and share in those moments of joy. And I sincerely hope you retain the capacity to savor their company.
I also hope that life has treated you kindly. Given the medical challenges you’ve faced, have you still been able to pursue the dreams you held dear? Have you written those books, wandered through the museums, cheered on the grandkids at their sports events, celebrated their graduations, learned to sew, or mastered French as though it were your mother tongue? Have you managed to embrace life fully, relishing its highs and lows alike?
It wouldn’t be a letter from me if it didn’t include a touch of curiosity about the future itself. Has humanity succeeded in creating a world without war? Did we, as women, manage to bridge the gender gap? Has the human race finally realized that the world thrives when everyone is allowed to live in peace, have access to education and healthcare, and understand that giving is far more fulfilling than demanding? Or have computers truly taken over, relegating humanity to a state of submission?
Aging is a peculiar phenomenon. We all perceive it differently. Once, I asked a woman who had just celebrated her 100th birthday what her secret to longevity was. She replied, “There’s no secret. It just happens. You keep on living until you don’t anymore.” It’s quite a sober perspective, if you ask me. Perhaps you might echo this sentiment: “You simply keep putting one foot in front of the other.” That certainly sounds like me.
Reaching the milestone of 100 years is a remarkable achievement. If you’ve done so in good health and high spirits, you are luckier than many. I hope you find yourself among the fortunate, still enjoying life with family and, hopefully, a circle of friends who’ve journeyed with you this far. I hope the world has evolved into a better place and that you have discovered peace in knowing you did your best—and that your best was more than good enough.
Happy 100th birthday, dear self. I hope it has been a magnificent journey.
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RosieGlobal 
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