A Letter to my Daughter
To the girl I love,
In less than 24 hours, we will celebrate Mother's Day. When I look back on becoming your mama, I'm overcome with joy. See, you came at a somewhat dark time in my life. I really didn't know what was in store for me, until I saw those two pink lines on my test. Yet, you brought so much light... so much sunshine. You were exactly what I needed, even if I was unprepared at times. You have already taught me so much, so I want to share a few important things to remember as you grow, and face life:
Be yourself. Always be unapologetically you. There is no one else in the world like you. No one with your likes, dislikes, or personality. You are special, so don't be afraid to show it. Be unique and curious. Don't worry about fitting in with the crowd, just do you. Look for squirrels, dance in the rain, and be a bit reckless at times. You are beautiful.
Stand up for what's right, even when it seems impossible. The road less-traveled is difficult to choose, but will ALWAYS be worth it. Never be afraid to choose the right thing, even when the people you love have strayed from their path. Be strong and courageous, but also stay soft and sweet. See the good in the world, without allowing it to harden your viewpoints. There will be people who challenge everything that you stand for. Listen to them, learn from them, and grow from your experiences.
Don't let others define you. People will want you to be like them, but stay weird. Be silly. Stick to your values, even if it doesn't help you to fit in. People may try to take away your self-confidence so that you will be more like them. Guard it fiercely, and continually know your worth.
Know that it's OK to make mistakes. No one is perfect (and what a boring world it would be if we were). When you mess up, pick yourself up, and get back in the game. Always learn from your mistakes, and move forward by using the mistakes to change and shape who you are. I always have your back, and will hold your hand when you need reassurance.
My biggest wish for you is to simply be happy. Keep that fire in your soul burning, live and love life, be wild, and tell your story. Get to know and love yourself, but also pour yourself into helping others. You'll never regret making connections, so be bold.
I love you baby girl, more than a letter could ever describe. I don't always do the right things, but I want you to know that every day when I wake up, I give you my very best. I will do that every day, until I'm no longer on this Earth, because that's what mamas do.
You deserve it.
Love,
Mom
