Losing a child is an unimaginable tragedy for any parent. While there are countless experiences that can cause heartache, the loss of a son or daughter creates a profound void of sorrow that is truly unique.
Tim and Mary Smith from Tennessee faced this devastating reality when their 12-year-old daughter, Taylor, passed away on January 5, 2014, after a courageous fight against pneumonia.
Once the initial shock began to fade, Taylor’s parents embarked on the painful journey of sorting through their daughter’s belongings.
Among the familiar items like clothes, toys, and books, they discovered something that offered a glimmer of comfort amidst their grief.
According to reports, the couple came across a box containing a letter that Taylor had written to her future self. It included a note instructing that it should not be opened until 2023. Since Taylor would never be there to read it, her heartbroken parents decided to open it in her place.
Reading Taylor’s words felt like reconnecting with her spirit, providing solace to Tim and Mary. After shedding more tears, they chose to share the letter online, where it has touched the hearts of hundreds of thousands.
The letter began with the words, “To be opened by Taylor Smith on April 13, 2023 ONLY! Unless said otherwise.” Together, they made the decision to read it before that date, marking what would have been their daughter’s 22nd birthday.
With anticipation and emotion, Taylor’s parents carefully opened the letter. As they read her heartfelt message, tears streamed down their faces, overwhelmed by the moment.
“Dear Taylor,” it reads.
“How’s life? Life is pretty simple right now (10 years in your past). I know I’m late for you, but as I’m writing, this is early, so; congratulations on graduating high school! If you didn’t, go back and keep trying. Get that degree! Are you (we) in college? If not, I understand. We do have pretty good reasoning, after all.
Don’t forget, it’s Allana’s 11th birthday today! Sheesh, 11 already? In my time, she just turned 1! I didn’t get to go to that party though, because I was in Cranks, Kentucky for my first mission trip. I’ve only been back for 6 days!
Speaking of, how’s your relationship with GOD? Have you prayed, worshipped, read the bible, or gone to serve the lord recently? If not, get up and do so NOW! I don’t care what point in our life we’re in right now, do it! He was mocked, beaten, tortured, and crucified for you! A sinless man, who never did you or any other person any wrong!
Now, have you gone on any more mission trips? Have you been out of the country yet? How about on a plane?
Is Doctor Who still on the air? If not, what regeneration did they end it with? You should go watch some Doctor Who! Later though, you gotta finish reading your own words of wisdom!
Do you have your own place yet? If we’re in college, what are we majoring in? Right now, I wanna be a lawyer.
Have you been to Dollywood recently? Right now, their newest attraction is the Wild Eagle. It’s so fun!
Also I think I’m going to sell my iPad and buy an iPad mini, Don’t forget to tell your kids that we’re older than the tablet! Attached I also have a drawing of an iPad, so you can show them.
Well, I think that’s all. But remember, it’s been 10 years since I wrote this. Stuff has happened, good and bad. That’s just how life works, and you have to go with it. Sincerely, Taylor Smith“
Taylor’s letter, which was opened after their passing, was warmly embraced by the online community, with many internet users offering their condolences and support to Tim and Mary.
I can only picture the whirlwind of emotions they experienced when they discovered this letter! How would you have reacted if you were in their shoes?