Today’s writing prompt invites you to imagine a conversation across time—but in the other direction. We’re stepping into the future today.
If it feels right, create that small pocket of quiet for yourself again. Twenty minutes of uninterrupted time with your notebook or computer may be the perfect window.
Turn on music that helps you settle inward.
Put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode.
Light a candle or simply take a few slow breaths.
Take a moment to imagine a young person who will live many years from now.
Perhaps this person is your future great-grandchild. Or perhaps it’s someone you will never know, yet whose life may one day intersect with the words you write.
Imagine them discovering something you’ve written—perhaps a page from your journal, a letter, or a passage from a book you’ve written.
They are curious about you. They want to understand what it was like to live in your time, in your life.
Imagine them asking you:
“What is something you learned the hard way?”
Or perhaps:
“What do you wish people understood about being human?”
Or simply:
“What mattered most in your life?”
Write your response as if you are speaking directly to this person.
Tell them what you have learned.
Tell them what surprised you about life.
Tell them what you would want them to remember.
Even though you’ve carved out twenty minutes, write for as long as you feel moved to—whether it’s ten minutes or forty-five.
You may discover that the words come with unusual clarity.
Sometimes it is easier to tell the truth when we imagine speaking to someone who is listening with open-hearted expectations as to what they may learn from us.
• • • • • • • • • •
Dear writer, if you try this prompt, we would love to hear how it was for you.
What did you find yourself wanting to tell this future reader?
With you on the writing path,
Debra & Kristine
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