My future self

Dear Future self,

I see you on the subway sometimes. You’re around 55, you have long, frizzy hair, clipped up in some unique style. You’re often wearing what I imagine is probably a very comfortable skirt and your cell phone is several years older than everyone else’s in the car. But it still works, and that’s what matters, eh?

You carry multiple tote bags, emblazoned with non-profit organizations, political statements, conferences, and banks that were having free give-aways. Your jewelry implies that you’ve travelled. And I can tell by the orange cat hair on your black coat that you have a cat at home. My guess is you have more than one. But only because the first little guy was lonely and needed a buddy! And then the second one turned out to be pretty anti-social, so you know how it goes. Kids!

Oh no no, not real children. Of course not. Cats are responsibility enough, thank you very much. Scan down to your left hand ring finger and yes, it is naked. (Of course I noted that first, but I thought it might be uncouth to mention it earlier.) But really now, marriage isn’t everything. How could a partnership with someone else possibly define who you are? And regardless, look at that bangle! I bet it’s from India... or possibly Bangladesh? Bangalore? Bhutan? One of those, most likely. Note to Current self: I really do need to learn more about South Asia.

What is that you’re saying, Future self? Something about the new subway maps and the MTA getting rid of the W train? I know, I can’t believe it either! Nor can everyone else in the car, who I’ll assume you’re addressing, because it’s unclear with whom, more specifically, you’re being such a chatty cathy. And that sweet-looking hispanic man in front of you certainly seems more engrossed in his ipod than in engaging in witty banter with you, Future self. That’s all right though; we all have our quiet, less social days. He’s probably been working all morning and is tired out, not like you who haven't spoken to another human being since last night at 6pm. But no worries, hopefully he’s headed home now to rest up and relax.

Wow, Future self, if you could only find that face powder in your bag. You really need to stop piling everything in there. Maybe this weekend, you’ll finally clean it out so you can find what you need and your tote bag feels less like a black hole and more like a purse! That reminds you: need to follow up on that email about the community garden composting. As much as it would be nice to include everyone in the neighborhood, there’s no way our little garden has room for all of that organic waste! It just won’t fit.

Anyway, here’s your/my stop, Future self! I hope you make it to your meeting on time!!

All the best,
Current self