If you could write a letter to your future great-grandchild, what would you say?

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Every Wednesday we ask our Brain Game contestants one interesting, thought-provoking or just plain quirky question. Their answers will be published anonymously in Young Post. Then readers vote for their FAVOURITE answer. We will eliminate the contestant with the LEAST votes every week until we have a winner. The ultimate Brain Game winner will win a DJI Spark drone.

Votes close at midnight on Sunday.

The contestants

Contestant 1

Dear great-grandchild,

How’s life? I’m curious: how bad is global warming? What’s your version of the internet like, or what do you use instead?

Unless someone comes up with a way to time travel, I might not be around to hear back from you, so I’ll stop asking questions and instead offer some timeless, sound advice.

Did you know that I was so caught up with my university applications, I nearly forgot that today’s the deadline for me to write my letter to you. But 50 years later, will all the essays I’ve written really matter? Probably not, but my relationship and the friendships I’ve made with other people will. What I’m saying is, think long-term.

When you’re stressed about your studies or work (provided there hasn’t been a third world war and you’re all living in a backwards dystopia, and if that is the case, my condolences), just relax. Life is brief; don’t beat yourself up over small things.

Contestant 2

Dear great-grandchild,

First off, for the record, I’m not as hysterical as your other family members may suggest. Well, maybe a bit. I’ve experienced so many life-changing events on this wonderful planet. As I write this letter, I feel grateful that I have had so many ups, and more importantly, downs throughout my life.

You’ll spend most of your time at school when you’re young, where you’ll not only study but also learn from your mistakes. You may feel that you want to get out and do what you please, but school is something you can only experience once in your life.

Do things that make you happy but don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone; indeed, that’s what makes you grow. While you should remember that you are not immortal, the greatest explorers were thought to be reckless and took risks. Taking bigger chances are very important if you want to discover our world. Ignore anyone who says that you’re dreaming too big.

There is nothing that I want more in the world than for you to grow up in a family that is always there for each other. Keep your family close. And always remember to fight for what is right.

Contestant 3

My dear great-grandchild,

I hope you have a few minutes to read my letter, as I have more life experiences than you do, and therefore have a lot to teach you.

Firstly, please be aware of the things around you. There are many bad people out there who might try to trick or harm you.

Secondly, try to do the right thing, at the right time, at the right place, to the right person. If you do one of those things wrongly, you might get in trouble, and be blamed by others for it.

Thirdly, please practise self-control. Try not to use your phone so much, or whatever device you are addicted to these days. You need to take care of your eyes and focus on your studies, otherwise you might regret it later on.

Lastly, remember to take the time to rest, as that is very important, too.

Contestant 4

Hi, my future great-grandchild,

It is the year 2018. Right now, I am a student and I like maths. We have a smartboard and some computers in the classroom, and we do our homework on paper.

I am sure that you guys are using computers or relying on robots to do everything, but you shouldn’t rely on them too much. Do you have to go to school? If you don’t, stay curious and don’t stop learning.

What kind of jobs are still available? A few jobs in 2018 have already been taken over by robots and technology. We do a lot of things digitally, such as reading books, doing homework, and chatting to each other. Are there still vending machines that you can buy snacks from? Do you still use bills and coins? I look forward to hearing from you.

<a href="https://poll.fm/10151838">Which answer do you like BEST?</a>

*In case of dispute, Young Post reserves the right to decide the result.

Edited by M. J. Premaratne

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