I had coffee with my younger self in the mid-afternoon sun.
She arrived running late from an after school activity and I was a few minutes early, enjoying the quiet.
She showed up in mascara, jeans, an old T-shirt, and bright sneakers. I had a full face of subtle makeup and was dressed in business casual.
She ordered hot chocolate with whipped cream and I ordered a black house coffee.
She jumped right into the conversation without hesitation and I listened quietly, intently, waiting for my moment to chime in.
She talked about her girl drama and I smiled, knowing the friends I would eventually have in my life.
She talked about being unsure if she wanted to be a mom, and I teared up thinking of my amazing son at home.
She talked about possibly marrying the boy she was with someday, and I knew there was much heartache and healing yet to come.
She went on and on about wanting to make a living writing when she grew up. I encouraged her to keep at it, despite any bumps bound to pop up or loss of inspiration.
On the way out she kept me at arm’s length and offered a parting smile. But I wrapped her into a hug and whispered, “You’re going to be OK.”
[Inspired by poet @jennaececelia]
Jessica Williams Bricker 