Dearest daughter,
I would like to start off by telling you something important: I have wished, hoped, and dreamed my entire life for a daughter. I am writing this letter to show you just how special you are and to tell you how much potential you have. I want you to know that this letter is not a lecture or an 'I-told-you-so' story. This letter is a compilation of advice I have received over the years, quotes that have inspired me, and lessons I have learned on my own after difficult times. I will tell you everything you need to know about relationships, beauty, dreams, heartbreak and friends. I am not telling you that I will be disappointed if you do not listen to everything I have to say, but I do want you to do one thing. Hear me out.
Relationships
Firstly, cherish your parents. My parents do all they can to make me happy and protect me. I promise to do the same for you. My mother is my best friend, and I hope I will be yours. When you think your parents are embarrassing or annoying, do not sever this relationship. As you grow, your parents are getting older, too. Cherish each moment. I am eternally grateful that my parents brought me into this world, nurtured and cared for me, and taught me all that I know. I pray that you always respect me, and I promise to show you the same respect.
As for romantic relationships, I hope you find the love of your life who respects who you are and makes you a better person. Finding this person will take time; be patient and know your self-worth. Do not give yourself to the first boy who shows you a hint of attention. Do not settle or let someone belittle you, even if you love him. You are worth more than gold. If he does not realize that, he does not deserve you. When you experience heartbreak, I will be here for you with lots of hugs, ice cream, and long talks. Heartbreak is all-consuming at times, but I promise it will get better, and you will love again.
In addition to your relationship with your parents or a significant other, find true friends. This also takes time, and you may lose friends over petty incidents or gossip. Remember that quality is always more important than quantity. You will eventually figure out which friends will be there for you, and I expect you to be a true friend who is honest, supportive, and loving. Always surround yourself with people who challenge you, see your potential, and inspire you to be a better person.
Beauty
Keep in mind: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." To me, you are breathtaking in both appearance and inner beauty. Not everyone you meet will find you beautiful, and that is OK. Everyone has a different definition of beauty, and you will never be able to please everyone. Instead, appreciate your inner and outer beauty. If you believe you are beautiful, it will radiate. Always make a good first impression; it shows that you care about yourself and how you relate to the world. Do not compare yourself to photoshopped women in magazines or those around you. They are not you, and you are not them. That is the beauty of individuality. Hold on to what makes you unique and be confident. If you are happy with how you look and your personality, never apologize for who you are.
Dreams and Ambition
Something very important to me is that you stay a dreamer; hold on to your childhood imagination dearly. I am not telling you to daydream all day, but I want you to appreciate the whimsical, fun aspects of life that we often lose after childhood. Find something you are passionate about and make a living from it. Do not fear failure; it is inevitable and teaches us some of life's most important lessons. Others will try to discourage you from following your dreams. I say go for it, but remember that a dream takes hard work to become a reality. I will always be your number one supporter who encourages your ambitions.
Lastly and most importantly, I want you to know that I love you. I will always love you, even if you make a mistake, give me an attitude, or hurt my feelings. My love will always be unconditional, and I hope yours is the same. Maybe one day, you will write a letter to your future daughter, just like I am now. You may even pass down some of the lessons I gave your in this letter. I pray that you your love your daughter as much as I love you.
With a heart full of love,
Momma
