Most teenagers want to go to university, travel the world and make lots of friends. Taylor Smith, 12, of Johnson City, Tennessee, was no different. This young lady liked to spend days with her friends and family and watch a lot of Doctor Who.
In an April 2013 letter to his future self, Smith outlined those plans. A box in her room was marked “Taylor Smith will not open until April 12, 2023 (unless noted)”.
Taylor Smith
Unfortunately, she did not live long enough to know if these goals were accomplished. Taylor died shortly after writing the letter from complications from pneumonia.
Tim and Mary Ellen Smith, her parents, were shocked. They couldn’t believe their child was gone forever.
They found this letter one day when they passed through her farm. Because it touched them deeply, they decided to post it on the internet for the comfort of others.
Taylor Smith
Taylor’s letter and the words she wrote to herself are provided below.
Sharing her daughter’s letter, Marry Ellen wrote: “I can’t physically revive her, I can’t bring her back, but I’m so grateful that people are inspired by her story.”
Taylor Smith
Dear Taylor, how are you? Life is relatively easy now. I know I’m late, but I’m writing this early, so congratulations on getting your high school diploma! If it didn’t, you should go back and try again. Earn your degree! Are you (we) enrolled in school? I understand if not. Our reasoning is pretty solid after all.
You remember, today is Allana’s 11th birthday! Oh my god, 11 already? He was only one when I was growing up! But since I was in Cranks, Kentucky on my first mission trip, I couldn’t attend the party. I’ve only been here six days!
How is your relationship with GOD in this regard Have you asked, loved, read scripture or gone to serve the Lord lately? If you haven’t, get up and do it now! Do it no matter where we are in our lives right now! He was mocked, beaten and tortured before he was sentenced to death for you! A sinless person who has never done harm to you or anyone else!
Are you currently doing other mission trips? Have you traveled anywhere else? Maybe by plane?
Do you still watch Doctor Who? If not, what kind of regeneration did they use to end it? Watch Doctor Who now! You’ll have to read your wisdom later though!
Do you still live in your home What do we learn when we study in college? Right now I want to become a lawyer.
Have you been to Dollywood lately? Wild Eagle is currently their newest attraction. It’s so much fun!
I also think I’ll buy an iPad mini instead of an iPad; tell your kids we are tablet parents! Upon joining I also have a drawing of an iPad for you to show them.
Well, I think it is. But remember, I last wrote this ten years ago. Both good and bad events happened. You just have to accept life as it is.
Sincerely, Taylor Smith
Great words from an angel whose family was taken too soon!