I'm Glad You Did What You Had To
On the chapters of a life — and the only thing you can really say to the past version of yourself.
The way you’d want to be talked to, looking back. The way it might be useful to start talking to your past self now.
Another chapter’s been written
Now that time has come and gone
Upon us all is another chance
To write a story worthy of a song
Whether it’s the beginning
Whether it’s the middle or end
We can mend the past—
And brighten what’s in store
Will we do what we’ve done before?
Maybe you will, but I won’t, I can’t
Write to me that you’ll follow
The dreams you’ve put on hold
I don’t want to read another chapter
With more questions than answers
When I read your book, I want to say:
“I’m glad you did what you had to”
You can’t redo the chapter. You can write the next one differently. The line at the end is the version of grace I keep trying to extend backwards: I’m glad you did what you had to. It’s the kindest sentence I know.
— JTC