Dear 27-year-old Zach,

Let me start off by saying that I hope you’re having a great day.

I’m sitting at the wooden kitchen table in your old house, trying to picture what you look like at 27. How tall are you? (I’d like to think I got taller, at least a bit) What does your face look like? Can you finally grow non-patchy, non-horrific-looking facial hair? What does your hair look like, or maybe you don’t have any thanks to early-onset baldness? Who knows?

You could be ripped! A six-pack even! Maybe that’s a stretch, but I hope you’re at least working out regularly. You may have even started running, which is something you know you wanted to get better at in high school.

I assume you’ve graduated from college. If so, do you have a job? Do you have a significant other? The reason I’m asking is because I don’t want you to be a complete loser. Just kidding! It’s totally fine if you’re unemployed and single (but hopefully not still living at home).

In case you’ve forgotten, here is what life was like for you a decade ago.

For once, I am going to be serious, so listen up. 

At 17, I try to live every day to the fullest, even if it’s just an average day. I go out of my way to appreciate the small things that make seemingly boring days great. I think to myself: Were my scrambled eggs especially delicious this morning? Was there a funny-looking cloud that resembled an animal? Did I wave hello to someone new on the way to class? I hope you have retained this ability to appreciate life.

One thing I know about you is that you will probably surround yourself with great people. It’s a great habit that you have. I’m confident that you have a great group of friends in college that you truly care for, just like the ones I have now in high school.

Please say you’ve stayed in touch with my current friends though, because they’re pretty cool people.

If you’ve been zoning out through this entire letter, like I know I would have, remember one thing —  I have so much hope for you right now. If it seems like it’s just you against the world, remember that you are your number one supporter and advocate. Continue “popping off” as a 17-year-old me would say.

Could you write me back and give me some heads up about some things I should know? Could you write who wins the 2024 Super Bowl, so I can place a rather large bet on the winner? 

Sincerely,

Your 17-year-old self