Dear Little Me,

Hi there, Beautiful. Look at you, all dressed up in your uniform for the first day of school. I know you are scared. Scared you won’t make friends, scared the teacher will be mean, and scared that your parents are nowhere in sight. You just listen to me, Little One: You are going to be amazing. You will make friends, the teacher will love you, and you will be able to tell your parents all about your amazing first day of school later.

You are going to do amazing things with your life. You are going to shine as bright as the stars. Your smile will light up any room, and your eyes will forever sparkle. Throughout your life, you have to promise me that you will always have courage and be kind to all those around you. Your kindness is what makes you, you. I know life is going to be hard for you at times, but power through, Little One. Show them that there is strength in all of us. Always remember that God would never give you an obstacle that you couldn’t overcome.

You will have many friends throughout your childhood and into adulthood. Some will stay, some will leave, and some will make you wonder why you were ever friends to begin with. Even though you are upset about those that left, know that it just wasn’t meant to be. They were simply a part of a chapter in your story. It is those that stay in your life, throughout all of the chapters, who show you the world. Their different views on life will open your eyes to the infinite amount of possibilities that are out there.

I know that growing up, you will have many different thoughts about what you wish to be once you’re older. Those careers will range from being a princess (let’s be honest, you still want that), to a teacher, to a doctor, and to a trophy wife. All of these are great options, but only one will be the winner. That winner will be up to you in the future, but for right now, focus on being your cute little self and doing great in school (believe me, you’re smart). Little One, you can do anything you put your mind to. Your mind is a wonderful thing; take good care of it!

Whatever you do, don’t forget to be adventurous in life. I know you’re shy and that the world can seem like a scary place, but never let that stop you. There is so much out there that you have yet to see. From the Northern Lights to the Japanese cherry blossom trees, the adventures are endless.

Little One, throughout your life there will be struggles, there will be obstacles to overcome, and no matter how much you feel like you just can’t do it, know that you can. Know that you are strong. Know that those around you love you dearly. But most importantly, know that your future is bright and your life is worth cherishing every step of the way.