The last T-SQL Tuesday of the year is hosted by my good friend Mike Walsh. Mike’s call for us is to end the year on a poignant note – write a note each to your past me and future me, on things you wish you knew, or learning plans or anything you’d like to say.
My notes are as below –
Note to My Past Self (10 Years Ago)
I wish you had realized that admiring others shouldn’t make you lose sight of your own worth and potential.
I wish you knew that real friendships take time to grow.
I wish you understood that if all you share with someone are conversations about community politics and tech, that relationship probably won’t last.
I wish you expected people to ask about you too—not just the other way around.
I wish you learned to let go and move on easily—whether from people or jobs that have outlived their value.
I wish you knew how to pick your battles and not let every little thing upset you.
But despite all this, you did your best. Life is a learning experience, after all.
Note to My Future Self
I’m glad you’ve learned to find joy in doing things for their own sake—not for rewards, even in tech.
I’m glad you kept learning what you wanted to learn, despite the challenges.
I’m glad you figured out who your true friends are—and held on to them.
I’m glad you learned to trust life and let go of what doesn’t matter.
And I’m glad you still find time to smell the roses and be grateful.
As we close out the year, I’m reminded that growth is a journey—one that stretches across decades, shaped by lessons learned and hopes carried forward. Here’s to continuing that journey with curiosity, resilience, and gratitude. Thank you Mike, for hosting and wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season.