It’s Vendor Week and Queensland vendor Sharyn writes a letter to her younger self
“I Have No Regrets: It Is a Senseless Emotion”
Dear Young Sharyn,
What should I tell you to do, or not to do? If I were 16 again, would I change the course of my life?
Yes, I guess I would. Most people would, at least 50% or more. My choices back then – all the decisions you’re about to face – were uninformed. Now I’ve lived, and I know more about life.
Would I have children? Maybe. I have no regrets: it is a senseless emotion. Going back to the past doesn’t assist you; it only makes you more knowledgeable now. You’re going to be adventurous and enjoy life, but there will be times when you make the wrong choices. Things might not end good, but you’ll learn from it.
When I look back on my life, I smile. You will have good times and meet unforgettable people. You come from a good family; even though your parents will argue at times, us four kids will always have all we need.
You’re the second-born, two years younger than your older sister Kim. She died two years ago – rest in peace, sis. Some advice on how to cope with this: hold on to your faith and think of all the good times.
My sister used to say, “Money doesn’t mean that much to Sharyn”. To be honest, it’s tough without it. I’m not wealthy, although I could’ve been a few times.
Education doesn’t always go where you think it will. You’ll go to uni in your twenties and get a degree in education – then do certificates later on, in your forties, fifties, even sixties. I never really used those qualifications but I did learn a lot. Mum will say you’re the most educated person…without a job. I want to encourage you to pursue those qualifications. That’s an example of a change I would make, if I could.
You’ll be happy to know that nowadays I’ve given up my bad habits. It was time. You will try various avenues, but the one that will help you the most is your own inner strength and self-belief.
If you could somehow come and see me now, I’d be relaxing, watching movies, watching sport and selling The Big Issue. You’re going to love selling The Big Issue: it will suit you because you can work your own hours, and get the opportunity to observe human nature.
Even now I know that it’s something I’ll look back on one day and smile about. But you can’t go back in time, so be happy with the life you have.
Trust yourself – always look forward, never back and remember to keep smiling,
Sharyn
Published in ed#755
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