Sometimes it’s good to look back and reflect. When I think about how much I’ve changed since high school, since I started my first job, and other milestones in my past, I think of how interesting life is. You never really know which way it will turn. But through this time of reflection, I thought it may be interesting to write a letter to myself from ten years ago. A letter that would have been really nice to read during that time. Hope you enjoy it

holding a snake in Zambia (2008)

Dear 24 year old Hiro, 

I know you’re going through a hard time right now. 

You just experienced one of the most painful times in your life. Having a relationship end is never easy, It’s even harder when you realize that your actions were the primary cause of it. 

I just want you to know that you’re heading in the right direction, and the path you were heading  is definitely not a path that would fulfill what you deeply desire. 

There is lots coming your way that you can’t even fathom at this moment. I know it seems like you are unsure of what the future holds, but trust me when I say that you will be taken care of as long as you remain true to your core. 

Remember that you are not a bad person. Everyone makes mistakes, and it’s how we stand up from those mistakes and learn from them that determines our character.

when I couldn't grow facial hair....I guess I still can''t (2008)

I want you to know that some of the beliefs that you hold, the things that you think are important, will become less so. Things will start to become more grey, less black and white. 

And you’ll find that the very core of who you are is going to be what continues on, while many other things that you hold opinions of will change. I want you to know that it’s not a bad thing. As you open yourself up to new challenges and new ideas, you’ll learn to sift through those and take what is applicable to you. Be open to the new. Be open to the scary and the unknown, and have confidence that no matter what comes your way, it will be something you can learn from. 

Don’t waste your time. 

Take the time to think through things. Your impulsiveness can be advantageous at times but can also be dangerous. Learn to understand when the outcome of it is beneficial and when it is not. 

Don’t forget to be kind. Don’t obsess so much over balance, but think more about how to get the most out of every experience, as that’s what will continue to drive your happiness.