For any parent, losing a child is an unfathomable tragedy. The death of a son or daughter leaves a deep emptiness of grief that is genuinely unique, even though there are innumerable situations that might cause sadness.
This tragic truth was faced by Tim and Mary Smith of Tennessee when their 12-year-old daughter, Taylor, died on January 5, 2014, following a valiant battle with pneumonia.
After the initial shock subsided, Taylor’s parents started the traumatic process of going through their daughter’s possessions.
They found something among the familiar objects—clothes, toys, and books—that provided some solace in the midst of their sorrow.
A letter that Taylor had written to her future self was discovered in a box by the couple, according to sources. A note advising not opening it until 2023 was provided. Her distraught parents chose to open it in Taylor’s place because she would never be present to read it.
Tim and Mary found comfort in reading Taylor’s words, which felt like a reconnection with her spirit. They decided to post the message online after more tears were shed, and hundreds of thousands of people have been moved by it.
“To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 13, 2023 ONLY!” was the first line of the letter. Unless otherwise stated. Before that date, which would have been their daughter’s 22nd birthday, they decided to read it together.
Taylor’s parents eagerly and sympathetically opened the letter. Overwhelmed by the situation, tears fell from their eyes as they read her meaningful letter.
It says, “Dear Taylor”.
“How is life going? Right today, life is fairly easy compared to ten years ago. As I write this, I realize I’m late for you, but congrats on your high school graduation! Go back and try again if you didn’t. Obtain your degree! Are we (you) enrolled in college? I understand if not. After all, our logic is rather sound.
Remember that today is Allana’s eleventh birthday! Eleven already? She recently turned one in my time! However, I was on my first mission trip in Cranks, Kentucky, therefore I was unable to attend that party. I’ve only returned for six days!
How is your relationship with God, by the way? Have you recently gone to serve the Lord, studied the Bible, worshipped, or prayed? Otherwise, get up and do it right away! Do it regardless of where we are in life at the moment! For you, he was ridiculed, thrashed, tormented, and crucified! A man without sin who has never wronged you or anybody else!
Have you made any other mission trips since then? Have you already traveled abroad? What about flying?
Does Doctor Who continue to air? What regeneration, if any, did they end up with? Go watch some Doctor Who, please! You must, however, finish reading your own words of wisdom later!
Have you yet to get a place of your own? What are we majoring in if we’re enrolled in college? I want to be a lawyer right now.
Have you recently visited Dollywood? The Wild Eagle is currently their newest attraction. It is a lot of fun!
Additionally, I believe I will sell my iPad and purchase an iPad mini. Remember to let your children know that we are older than the tablet! I’ve included a drawing of an iPad as well, so you can show them.
I believe that’s all. But keep in mind that I wrote this ten years ago. Both good and horrible things have happened. You have to accept that this is the way life is. Regards, Smith, Taylor”
Following their death, the online community enthusiastically welcomed Taylor’s letter, with many users expressing their sympathies and support for Tim and Mary.
When they found this letter, I can only imagine the flurry of emotions they went through! If you had been in their position, how would you have responded?
