Dear precious girls of the world,

You matter. Your stories matter. You are not forgotten.

I'm writing to each one of you, each of the 130 million. You are more than a number.

I know a letter can never make up for the injustice that education is given only to the privileged few, but these words are more than necessary. Even though you cannot read yet, I hope that I and other people around me will share these words through the universal language of kind actions, informed initiatives, and the outpouring of love and support. Many thanks to this personal and heart-breaking article by Ann Voskamp for waking me up from my self-centered slumber.

I'm sorry for all the times I've complained about reading assignments, tests, grades, and professors, totally ignorant that you would give almost anything for the chance to learn and obtain an education.

I'm sorry that I don't cherish my ability to read and write for the privilege that it is.

I'm sorry for those who set up school systems with no consideration of the value of your traditions and way of life. Maybe education is not what you personally need to thrive, but I at least want you to have that choice.

I'm sorry that I get so lost in my middle-class life that I forget that a whole other world exists - a world that I can give to and from which I can be blessed from in return. I'm sorry for forgetting that you have so much to teach me.

I'm sorry for presuming that because you live in a culture which I know nothing about, you don't have dream, hopes, and longings like mine.

I'm sorry for using my blessings on myself instead of sharing them with those in need. I have much to learn from your generous, eager hearts.

I'm sorry for failing to be the person I should to my sisters of the world and for failing to stick together as we should for better treatment of all women.

I'm sorry for assuming that the injustices you face affect you alone. They actuallyaffect all of us and the well-being of the world.

Please forgive my ignorance, wrong assumptions, and whining. I want the best for you. If you desire to learn to read, I want you to have that opportunity. I want you to feel secure and loved. You, dear girl, with your unique name, story, and heart, are not overlooked or forgotten.