Losing a kid is the biggest dread for every parent. There are a thousand things in this world that can cause pain, but the death of a son or daughter creates an unrivaled black hole of grief.
Tim and Mary Smith’s lives were destroyed when their 12-year-old daughter, Taylor, died on January 5, 2014, from pneumonia.
When the shock subsided, Taylor’s parents began the terrible task of sorting through their daughter’s belongings.
Among the normal collection of clothes, trinkets, books, and boxes, they discovered something that would help them get through their agony.
According to accounts, the parents opened one package and discovered a letter that their daughter had written to her older self. The letter was not to be opened until 2023, but Taylor’s bereaved parents did so for her.
Tim and Mary were relieved to hear Taylor’s voice again, even if it was through writing. After shedding more tears, they decided to post their daughter’s message online, where hundreds of thousands of people have read it.
The letter Tim and Mary Smith discovered stated, “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 13, 2023 ONLY! Unless stated otherwise. They decided to open the letter before that date, when their darling daughter would have been 22.
Taylor’s parents eagerly broke the seal to open the letter. It was an emotional occasion, and when Taylor’s parents read what their daughter had written, hot tears streamed down their cheeks.
“Dear Taylor,” it says.
“How is your life? Life is rather basic right now (10 years ago). I know I’m late for you, but as I write this, it’s early, so congratulations on graduating from high school! If you did not succeed, try again. Get your degree! Are you (we) attending college? If not, I can understand. After all, we have sound arguments.
Don’t forget Allana’s 11th birthday today! Sheesh, eleven already? She was only a year old at the time! I didn’t get to attend the party since I was in Cranks, Kentucky on my first mission trip. I’ve only been back for six days.
How is your relationship with GOD? Have you recently prayed, worshiped, studied the Bible, or served the Lord? If not, get up and do it now! I don’t care where we are in life right now; just do it! He was humiliated, beaten, tormented, and crucified just for you! A sinless man who has never done you or anybody else harm!
Have you been on any additional mission trips? Have you been outside of the nation yet? What about on an airplane?
Is Dr. Who still on air? If not, what regeneration did they end up with? You should watch some Doctor Who. Later on, you must complete reading your own words of wisdom!
Have you got your own place yet? What is our major in college? Right now, I want to be a lawyer.
Have you visited Dollywood recently? The Wild Eagle is currently their newest attraction. It’s so much fun!
Also, I believe I am going to sell my iPad and purchase an iPad mini. Don’t forget to inform your children that we are older than the tablet! I have attached a drawing of an iPad that you can show them.
Well, I believe that’s all. Remember, I wrote this ten years ago. Something has happened, both good and awful. That’s just how life works, and you have to roll with it. Sincerely, Taylor Smith ”
As previously noted, Taylor’s post-mortem message was well welcomed online, with internet users offering their condolences and commiserations to Tim and Mary.
I can only image the mixed emotions they must have felt when they discovered this letter! How would you have handled their situation?