
LETTER TO MY YOUNGER SELF: JIVANA HEYMAN
Letter to my younger self: Jivana Heyman
photo: SaritRodgers
PROFILES

If you could write a letter to your younger self what would it say? We asked some amazing people in our community to write letters, and were blown away by the love, compassion and humor they shared. Jivana Heyman shares his letter here.
Dear Jivana,
Sending you love and support for your journey ahead. I know there will be challenging times, but you’ll find your way through. You have more strength than you realize. In fact, your biggest weakness is your self-doubt. The sooner you let it go, the more you’ll enjoy life, and the more service you’ll be able to offer the world. Embrace your queerness as quickly as you can, and as fully as possible. Being queer is a gift, not a curse.
Your youthful idealism is a strength, not a weakness. Keep on imagining a world full of peace and justice, even if they constantly tell you that you’re naive. In the end, the love and care you have for other people and for nature is all that really matters. Love your friends, family, and pets even more, but don’t become too attached at the same time. Nothing is permanent, and many of them will leave you, and many will die.
Keep practicing yoga and meditation with your full heart, and start teaching as soon as you can. Don’t get stuck in imposter syndrome and wait so long to share the practice you love with your community. It’s a great way to deepen your practice and be of service simultaneously. (In fact, we’re going on 30 years of teaching in 2025!) Teaching yoga is the biggest gift you’ll receive. Appreciate it for what it is, and recognize the awesome power and responsibility that it brings.
Remember that ethics are the heart of spirituality. They’ll protect you and keep you on the right track. In fact, the yamas, yoga’s ethical principles, are the protection that you need to navigate the challenges that life will continue to throw at you. They are like a shield to help keep you safe when things feel dangerous.
That reminds me–work on your boundaries! They are the key to everything. Love everyone, but don’t fall in love with everyone. Be open and welcoming, but don’t let people trample all over you. In fact, that’s my main message. Find a way to believe in yourself that is stable and grounded. I don’t mean that you should become egotistical; instead, feel your strength in your mind and body, and know that it’s a reflection of your spirit, which is shared with all beings. Allow your strength to be a vehicle for connection with others, rather than separation.
In general, people are good, but that doesn’t mean you have to listen to them. Instead, listen to that small voice in your heart and don’t ever stop listening. Remember, meditation is the language of that voice, so the more you practice, the easier it will be to understand the messages that are coming from deep within you. Like sonar echoing in the deepest ocean, meditation will help you navigate the dark, treacherous waters of the world.
You’ve got this!
Love,
Jivana