I met my younger self for coffee, and we arrived early since neither of us likes to be late. She wore a lovely, elegant outfit and accessories and a cute bag that matched her outfit. I wore a nice but comfortable outfit, a sweater with jeans with a big black bag that fit all my things. While settling in, I apologized for how heavy my bag looked but explained to her that I had my essentials. I looked preoccupied even though I was meeting my younger self for coffee. I ordered a flat white; I started drinking coffee a few years ago, but she ordered juice. It is funny because I no longer drink juice, and she asked me what changed. However, we ordered different cakes with frosting since we both have a sweet tooth. I guess some things never change.
She talked about her worries about relationships and social life. I told her that, relationship-wise, I learned so much about myself and how I navigate relationships. However, I assured her I am very happy now, have found so much peace within myself, focusing on what matters. I’ve learned a lot about caring for myself and discovering love within myself instead of seeking it from all the wrong people, and I have been living to the fullest. I stressed that bad experiences taught me so much, and I am now more aware and calm.
Through Our Conversation,
She mentioned that she is still confused about whether to go to medical school or major in English literature. I told her I work as a consultant specializing in environmental policy analysis. We talked about the future and our dreams. She told me where she wanted to live in the future, and I told her where I live now. I told her that I had actually left home, and another country had become my second home, where I now live and work. She told me about her dream to study in the US while I told her I got a Master’s degree from a university in France. I told her I changed the ”American” dream, and the story unfolded differently, and she was surprised.
She mentioned that she tends to overthink everything and gets stressed when things don’t go as planned. I reassured her it was perfectly fine because I’d moved past overthinking. It took me time to learn how to accept things as they are and recognize that I cannot control everything. It took a lot of trial and error, but it was worth it. I explained that I’ve learned to let things be as everything eventually falls into place. I explained to her that life had introduced me to anxiety and how badly it had affected my health. I said I was managing it better than I did previously, but more progress is needed.
Our conversation went on for a long time. We finished our drinks, and I wanted to order another cup of coffee. However, we got carried away in the discussion. Before leaving, she shared her fears about the future, and I reminded her that it is filled with brightness and countless good things waiting to unfold.