Talk to Your 10 year Old Self

We set up a letter writing booth...and approached strangers on the street to tell us what they'd write to their 10 year old self.

Created by Sam Sadeghi
Edited by Molly Bruno

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[Lizadegun]

Dear 10 year old self

I know what your going through a lot right now. I know you feel alone, scared and you are very confused by what you had to go through. Let me tell you that it's ok to not be ok. I know you think that this whole thing will go away soon but trust me we are still dealing with the aftermath of rape today. I would love to tell you that it gets better but your 11th year is the worst of your childhood. Just stay strong and keep going in life. Your one tough kid to get through this even though you don't feel like it. Pretty soon PTSD will kick in and so will depression. Be strong kid I love you.

15 year old you.

[jaybell]

Dear 10 year old self,
I know you're going through a rough time with your parents divorce and all, but you'll be okay. Spend more time with your grandma, cause you won't always get the chance. Talk to your older sister more often, because her life isn't as easy as you think.Try to make more friends or you'll be lonely. And make more of an effort to be happy.

[Romy_]

That guy with the cap..wasn't he in mean girls.. Still looks the same.

[jun]

Dear 10 year old me,
For a moment, stop and think.  You are, perhaps, one of the most amazing 10 year olds I know.  I know things haven't been easy, and people understanding you is something you aren't so familiar with.  So take it from me: you are going to grow up to be a confident and strong young woman.  You are going to overcome a lot of crap, and when you hit rock bottom, you are going to soar up just as fast as you came down.  Don't listen to the people who tell you to "stop worrying" or who point out your flaws - they don't matter.  In fact, only you do, because when it comes down to it, nobody else is allowed to make choices for you.  That's your job.  So the next time somebody tries to scare you, or tell you what is wrong with you, remember that in a few years, you'll be the one who's at the top.  Be confident.  Wear your bravery like a gold medal.  I know maybe you think you aren't brave - but oh my god you are.  You don't even know.
XOXO,
Me

[mybabyfarphie]

Dear 10 year old self, I know you feel alone now but in 5 years you will find your soulmate and break free from the violence at home. Hold on, pain ends. <3 

[camger]

Dear 10year old self, it's me your 24 year old self.
You've gone through stuff that no 10year old should ever have to go through. And things will only get worse the next few years. It's ok to feel this hurt stop trying to hide it you're not fooling anyone. And stop trying to understand, or ask why, there are no answers. Answers are overrated, love (if not unconditional) is overrated. Everything you know is overrated. But i'll let you in on a secret; When you're a bit older you're gonna leave this place, you're gonna go 2 the other side of the planet, without a plan or without a return ticket, without any idea!... What this journey will teach you? I'm not gonna tell, you're gonna find out. Just promise me you're gonna stick around till then, i promise you it will be worth it all.

PS: Go easy on your back, idiot.

[MissTake-rodc]

"she doesn't even go here" you'll get it eventually...I love you Demian

[JoleneGov]

Dear 10 year old me,

You're going to become a wreck in about 6 years. YouTube will take over your life and at 7:18 PM, you will sit on a couch watching YouTube with your Accounting assignment waiting for you.

-Love, an even more immature you.

[broandsis]

What about a 12 year old writing a letter to her 22 year old self?

[danybernal]

Everyone should write a letter to their 10 year old self! So wise and healing! Love you soul pancake <3

[Parmesana]

I am older..and when I was 10...girls were not encouraged to learn those professions at all..We were expected to be Mommys, teachers, or nurses. That's about it.

[faithintruthltd]

Alot of y life has actually been lived with the idea that my younger self is watching over me, a younger, less serious, more fun loving, innocent view of the world, unriddled with the tenacity and ferociousness of the world, and more through the eyes of a pancaker...

[Ferlop]

Dear 10 year old me, in a few years you will pass through very difficult times, but don´t worry, you will be fine, stay strong. Say my mom and grandparents that you love them so much.
Feel much better

[adamtanner]

I love Soul Pancake's originality. They always have the most heart-warming ideas that are so refreshing to see!

[nicolepeaslee]

I think it's so important to write yourself notes to read in the future. We can be our best therapists for ourselves.

[SunMarianMcNameeLundell]

This made me feel really good. A great way to time travel into precious memories. I recommend you try. (smile)

[aniket]

It would be wonderful if they actually sent all the letters to the respective people 10 years later!

[WhoWouldWantThisName]

Dear 10 year old me; Follow and do not stray from whatever you enjoy, whatever you are passionate about, and what you know deep inside is right for you. Do what will earn your own respect and don't worry about who does or doesn't like you. Besides, more people, the right people, will like and respect you for that. Always be grateful for everything you do have rather than focusing on what you don't. I could write a book here but I'll stop at that.

[DrPhilipJarrett]

I should write a letter to my 10 years older self

[Purplishous]

Dear ten year-old self,
It's been 5 years, and a lot has changed. You moved like you wanted to and met new people. You've made many friends and with that, you lost some as well, but that never made you stop being you. And the people you're in the future are the ones you will want to stick with forever. You also joined color guard which you love because you get to meet amazing people and accomplish amazing things. Don't give up on yourself, I promise it gets better.
Sincerely,
15 year old me.