The letter was supposed to remain sealed for 10 years, but Tim and Mary decided to open it early. What they found inside would alter everything.

Like many teenagers, Taylor Smith, a 12-year-old from Johnson City, Tennessee, dreamed of going to college, exploring the world, and making lasting memories with her friends. She treasured her moments with family and had a deep love for Doctor Who.

In April 2013, 12-year-old Taylor Smith wrote a letter to her future self, detailing her hopes and dreams. She sealed it in a box with a note: “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 12, 2023, only (unless said otherwise).”

Tragically, Taylor never got the chance to read it. Just months after writing the letter, she passed away from complications of a sudden pneumonia. Her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen Smith, were heartbroken by the loss of their bright and energetic daughter.

While sorting through Taylor’s belongings, her parents, Tim and Mary Ellen, stumbled upon the letter she had written to her future self. Moved by the words that reflected her wisdom, hope, and bright spirit, they decided to share it with the world. They hoped Taylor’s message would inspire and bring comfort to others.

Mary Ellen wrote:

“I can’t physically resurrect her, I can’t bring her back, but I’m so grateful people have been inspired by her story.”

Here is the letter Taylor wrote—a heartfelt glimpse into her dreams, her faith, and her love for life:

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 six 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 words reflect the hopes, faith, and optimism of a young girl who was taken far too soon. Her letter continues to inspire many who come across her story.

If Taylor’s words touched your heart, share her story in her memory.