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Many young teenagers often fantasize about their future – attending college, journeying around the globe, and building friendships. Taylor Smith, a vibrant 12-year-old from Johnson City, Tennessee, shared these dreams.

She spent her days filled with the love of her family and friends and had a passion for watching “Doctor Who.”

In April 2013, Taylor penned a letter to her future self and placed it carefully inside a box in her room. The envelope bore the clear instruction: “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 12, 2023 only (unless said otherwise).”

Sadly, Taylor’s plans for the future were cut short. Just a few months after she composed the letter, she tragically succumbed to complications from a sudden and severe bout of pneumonia.

The loss was unbearable for her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen Smith. Their beloved daughter was gone, and their world was turned upside down.

While sifting through Taylor’s belongings, they stumbled upon the letter she had written to her future self. Its heartfelt message deeply moved them, and they decided to share it with the world in hopes of providing comfort to others.

Marry Ellen, while sharing their daughter’s letter with the public, expressed, “I can’t physically resurrect her, I can’t bring her back, but I’m so grateful people have been inspired by her story.”

Below is the poignant letter from Taylor, filled with aspirations and curious inquiries about her future.

Dear Taylor,

How’s life? Life is pretty simple right now (10 years in your past). I know I’m late for you, but as I’m writing, this is early, so; congratulations on graduating high school! If you didn’t, go back and keep trying. Get that degree! Are you (we) in college? If not, I understand. We do have pretty good reasoning, after all.

Don’t forget, it’s Allana’s 11th birthday today! Sheesh, 11 already? In my time, she just turned 1! I didn’t get to go to that party though, because I was in Cranks, Kentucky for my first mission trip. I’ve only been back for 6 days!

Speaking of, how’s your relationship with GOD? Have you prayed, worshipped, read the bible, or gone to serve the lord recently? If not, get up and do so NOW! I don’t care what point in our life we’re in right now, do it! He was mocked, beaten, tortured, and crucified for you! A sinless man, who never did you or any other person any wrong!

Now, have you gone on any more mission trips? Have you been out of the country yet? How about on a plane?

Is Doctor Who still on the air? If not, what regeneration did they end it with? You should go watch some Doctor Who! Later though, you gotta finish reading your own words of wisdom!

Do you have your own place yet? If we’re in college, what are we majoring in? Right now, I wanna be a lawyer.

Have you been to Dollywood recently? Right now, their newest attraction is the Wild Eagle. It’s so fun!

Also I think I’m going to sell my iPad and buy an iPad mini, Don’t forget to tell your kids that we’re older than the tablet! Attached I also have a drawing of an iPad, so you can show them.

Well, I think that’s all. But remember, it’s been 10 years since I wrote this. Stuff has happened, good and bad. That’s just how life works, and you have to go with it.

Sincerely, Taylor Smith

Taylor’s touching letter serves as a beautiful reminder of her youthful spirit and hopes. Although she is no longer with us, her words continue to inspire and remind us to cherish life’s moments and dream boldly.

If Taylor’s story and her heartfelt message moved you as much as it has us, feel free to share this tribute in her memory.