Every scar has a story. “Letter to My Younger Self” invites you into the reflective hearts of people who've walked winding roads—offering gentle truths, bold lessons, and encouragement for anyone still figuring it out. These weekly letters are full of grace and grit, showing how setbacks shape wisdom and how the past still holds power to teach. From nurturing curiosity to embracing mentorship, each piece is a tribute to growth through lived experience.
Claret Adhiambo, an Editor with Radio Africa Group pens this week’s heartfelt Letter to My Younger Self.
Dear younger self,
Did I tell you life kicked me real hard that when I was about to stand back up, it hit me again, harder?
But it it is the scars from those blows that carried me on and moulded me into the woman I have become today.
Those punches taught me that just like the ocean keeps kissing the shores no matter how often it is sent away, I also cannot give up on life.
But unlike life, don’t be so hard on yourself. Enjoy all the kati and brikicho (hide and seek) moments. Play all you want in the mud and crush on all the boys at teenage because when you grow up and make something out of your life, they will all come back crushing on you.
And the crazy clubbing escapades during my college days, they were worth it. It is those memories I hold on to right now, it is them I reminisce on in my adulthood and tell their tales to my children.
But self, don’t rush to being an adult; it the biggest scam of the century. The beautiful photos of mothers with children on social media are just that, beautiful photos.
But hey! Motherhood is beautiful. On tough days, it is the innocent smiles and questions from those little humans that carry me through.
I have learnt that one door closing is not the end of life. It is another opportunity of discovering myself, making new friends and finding new horizons.
Keep those good friends, they are your networth ¬– some will hook you up with jobs and opportunities – but ditch the ones that try to give you handouts of cynism and hatred.
Bad things, I have learnt, happen to good people and so do good things. But it is how you rise and tidy yourself up that defines who you are.
Self, do not live on what you wish you said. Some days, just scribble a single sentence and others just stay quiet because the truth can sometimes be said in silence.
Learn to create boundaries and stop pleasing people; they are never worth it.
Finally, love does not end and neither does it – from some people– stay. Some will wreck you, but you should always find a way of healing yourself from the wreckage.
And somehow, from that experience, you may find the very first and honest breath you have taken since those blows life handed you at the beginning.
Everyone has a story worth sharing. If you’ve ever wished you could talk to your younger self—with wisdom, forgiveness, or clarity—we invite you to write to us. Your real, heartfelt letter might just be the encouragement someone else needs today. You may remain anonymous if preferred, but your truth matters. We don’t pay contributors, but we believe in the power of shared experience. Join us in building a collection of life’s hard-earned lessons and gentle reminders.
Be part of this movement. Send your Letter to My Younger Self to: [email protected]
