Dear future self,
I hope time has been kind to you and that you are well. I am writing this as a Pre-Global Citizen Year Rabi to remind you of your thoughts and feelings before you embark on this undoubtedly life changing journey. You might need to revisit these emotions.
At the moment, I am in my room at 1a.m. stuck with my thoughts and I can’t help but to think about the fear of being away from family, friends, and a place I have learned to call home for this long period of time. I can’t help but to think about all the responses I have gotten when I tell people I will not be going to college, but rather spending eight months in Senegal. The “Are you crazy?” “Do you know what you are getting yourself into?” and the quite encouraging “I wish I had thought about this when I was your age.” I myself have been fluctuating from a mix of different emotions: nervousness, anxiety, but definitely excitement.
Future Rabi, I do not know how life is like right now but I want you to know that all the fear your past self was dealing with are the reasons why you chose this route. You and I both know that in fact, you did not know what you were getting into. But more than this, you and I both know you cannot achieve the change you yearn for if you continue to be immovable and shield yourself within your comfort zone. So I challenge you to go out, explore, meet new people, and learn! When you catch yourself doubting the decisions you have made remind yourself of how hard you have worked to get where you are. Be open to change and embrace it openheartedly, make every second count!
Your past self,
Rabi
