So, it’s 2010.  Five days ago, we ushered in a new year and a new decade.  10 years ago, we ushered in a new millennium.  In some ways, it feels like yesterday… in other ways, it seems like a lifetime ago.

As I reminisced about the past 10 years, I started thinking about my 10-years-ago self – who I was, who I wanted to be, and where I thought I’d be in 2010.  I think that it is safe to say that my 10-years-ago self would recognize me now.  I also think it is safe to say that she wouldn’t be overly surprised at where I am now & what I am doing with my life.

It got me thinking about what I would say to her if given the chance (as inspired by Richard Bach’s book, One)… I’ve been thinking about it for days.

Ushering in 2000. The 10-years-ago me.

I am really happy with my life right now and I wouldn’t want to advise her to change anything in the course of her life.  I wouldn’t discourage her from making any choices that I’ve made during the last decade.  I’ve learned from every decision I’ve made and they have all shaped me and guided me to this moment.

There are a few things I would tell her, though…

1. It’s not about you.  Nothing people say, do, or think about you is actually about you; it’s about them.  It is a reflection of them, not you.

2. Surrender yourself to peace – let go and be.

3. Focus your energy on what you want, not what you don’t want.  Appreciate what you love about the people in your life instead of dwelling on how you would change them.

4. There is no such thing as empty calories… even when pregnant.

I have no idea what the next year (or 10) hold for me, but I am going to do my best to follow the advice that I would give my 10-years-ago self if given the chance.