Okay, enough of the deep, depressing grown-up stuff. I guess I should answer a few of the questions from your letter and tell you a little about old you (me). I guess the good news for you is that girls become more appealing and less smelly as you get older. I know it's hard to believe now, but in a few years you will even want to spend some time with them. One day in the not-too-distant future, you're actually gonna kiss one of them. Freaky I know, but panic not, my young me; it's pretty good - almost as good as wrestling.

I probably shouldn't tell you this, but Helen Jacobs turns out to be kinda hot in a few years, so be nice to her. I know you don't really get this right now, but just trust me on it. Be nice!

You know how you feel when you see that Eliminator skateboard with the 'flexi-deck' and the see-through wheels in the sports store (the one you desperately want but are not allowed to have)? Multiply that feeling by a hundred and that's what you'll experience when you see Helen Jacobs in about eight years. She's like the best skateboard ever.

You asked me if I have looked after your body. Well, I've (you've) had my moments. I'm (you're) no Brad Pitt (you'll find out who he is in about twenty years) and there are a few creaky bits, but overall you're looking okay for a fossil. Compared to some forty-three year-olds, you're fantastic.

I'm sorry to have to tell you this Champ, but the wars, the violence, the hatred, the starving kids thing; all the yucky stuff - it's still happening. Possibly even more.

I know this doesn't make sense to you now, but as long as grown-ups are in charge of the world it seems like there will always be horrible, nasty, unfair injustices (bad stuff) happening to nice people who don't deserve it. I think if seven year-olds like you made all the rules, the world would definitely be a better place - a lot less violent and unfair anyway, and way less homework.

You asked if I was still excited about my future. The brief answer is yes, but not as excited as I should be. However, in the last twenty-four hours (since I got your letter), some of that excitement and enthusiasm has been re-ignited.

You have made me think. You have made me laugh and made me cry. You have made me feel things that I haven't felt for a long time. Chatting with you makes me sad, but also gives me immense joy. Hard to understand, I know, but it's true. I actually want to be more like you. I know that's a weird concept for you, but one day you'll get it.