Hi! I’m writing this during winter break 2024. There is no snow falling outside now, and I don’t know why, but it’s ok for me. I wanted to tell you about what winter and the holidays mean to me now. Maybe this letter will bring back memories when you read it.

Around the world, people celebrate Christmas in different ways. In the U.S., it’s about decorating trees, giving gifts, and having family dinners. In Germany, they have Christmas markets and advent calendars. In the Philippines, there’s the Giant Lantern Festival. But, since I am Chinese, and my grandparents really do not like celebrating Christmas due to an old historical reason, it’s really weird. The good thing is I still get Christmas gifts from my parents, so it’s fine for me.

Winter means it’s cold outside, which is really uncomfortable for some people like me because I have a runny rose, so I have to bring napkins with me. So, winter is not my favorite season due to this special reason. But the cold outside also means that I can go skiing. Every year during the winter break, I go to Lake Tahoe to ski, and it’s really fun for me. I like the feeling of rushing down the mountain.

I wonder what your life looks like now, ten years later. Will you change your mind about winter? And also, two weeks for winter break is not enough—I want four weeks of winter break. I also hope they can fix my nose, so I can leave napkins at home.

Most of all, I hope you’re happy. Don’t forget to take a break during the holidays. They’re not just about presents or lights. They’re about slowing down and spending time with the people you care about.

Sincerely,
Your 15-Year-Old Self