Dear ... (fill in blank)

an invitation to write two letters to yourself

If you were to write a letter to yourself that looked back at all that happened in 2024, and spoke of acceptance, understanding, compassion, forgiveness, gratitude, belief and love, I wonder what you’d write? If you looked around the room of your life that held all the memories of last year, what would you see, and how could you speak to yourself with the qualities above in mind? You are invited to give it a go.

Gavin Whyte

asked those who joined his Pen to Peace meditation and writing workshop today to do just that. After five minutes of quiet meditation focusing on our breath, we spent fifteen minutes writing, and then were invited to read our letters. I was not alone in finding this an emotional experience. Tears flowed as I wrote, and again as I read my letter out loud (although there was no pressure to do so).

Following on, Gavin invited us to look ahead to 2025 and write another letter, but this time the focus would be on encouragement, optimism, hope, excitement, acceptance, love, joy, stillness and (at my suggestions) boundaries. I thought of what I might pack in a bag and bring with me if I were to walk into 2025 with these qualities, leaving behind that which wasn’t welcome to come with me through the door. (There’s also a nod to the inspiration found in

Beth Kempton

‘s Winter Writing Sanctuary which is immersing me in some beautiful transformative, seasonal writing.)

The difference in tone between the letters being read out and looking forward was quite amazing. There was joy, hope and excitement galore!

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I invite you now, to sit with a notebook, and write yourself these two letters. Thanks to Gavin for allowing me to share his workshop idea, which came at just the right time. I was so stuck on what to say and how to reflect on what has been a complete rollercoaster of a year, dealing with the dramatic decline and death of my mum and some serious health issues and surgery for me. However, these two letters have been a huge help and I invite you to make yourself a cuppa, grab a notebook or even better, some Basildon Bond if you have it and write yourself a couple of letters.

Look back with love and compassion, and forward with excitement and anticipation and see what comes up.

Here are my two:

Dear Sue,