I have always loved children and have dreamed of being a mother since I was a little girl. In the past few years I've had multiple babysitting and nanny jobs. I've been thinking a lot about my future lately. I'm at that age where my friends are getting engaged, married, having children- basically, we're all growing up. This terrifies me but at the same time leads me to prayer. This prayer is for my future daughter and I hope someday I get to show this to her.

I pray that you fall in love. First and foremost with yourself. I hope that you can look deep within your heart and know that God made you individually unique and special. You are loved by so many people, you just have to love yourself first to truly be able to see it.

I pray that you are patient... with me, your siblings, others, and most importantly, with God. I know firsthand the consequences of being impatient with God. I promise you, nothing good comes out of trying to outsmart God. He knows your every move and He does have a plan for you.

I pray that you don't ever let those boys tell you what beauty is. No matter what age, do not let a man define what beauty is and what you need to do to be "beautiful". Everyone is beautiful in their own way. You need to discover true beauty on your own.

I pray that you can find God in the little things... such as the sunsets He gives us every day and the constant care and protection He provides. Find your joy and happiness in the laughter of the friends you love and the wildflowers that grow in the fields off the interstate.

I pray that you tell me everything. I want you to turn to me when the bullying doesn't seem to end... when you feel like your life isn't going the way you want it to...when you need to make a decision, no matter how small. I know what it's like to feel like you're at the end of your rope. I want you to feel safe and comfortable coming to me with anything. I don't ever want you to feel alone. I know that some days you will, but I want to make it better.

I pray that you sing as if nobody is listening and dance as if nobody is watching...for these qualities will allow you to live the life you want free from fear of judgment from others. Be yourself and those who genuinley love you will always accept you.

I pray that someday you find the love of your life... whether it be Christ, a certain career, or the man of your dreams. I hope you talk to God a lot before you make such an important decision about who or what will drive the rest of your life. Know that I will always love you and support you. Whatever God hands us, I know we can and will always make it through.

Most importantly, I want you to know that, at 20 years old, I'm already loving you and praying for you.