Hi sweet girl,
One day you will have the world in the palm of your hands during this amazing journey called life ahead of you. Before that happens, there are some things I want you to know. Things I wish I would have known. You will be faced with tough decisions, heartbreak, loss and so much more. But know that you are strong, beautiful and can handle anything life throws at you.
1. Having a few close friends is way better than a lot of acquaintances.
As unfortunate as it is, finding friends who will always be there, and whom you can rely on, is a rarity. People change and move on and it sucks. I know there's that group of popular girls at school who always look like they are having the time of their lives, and it may make you wish that, it was you. But it's not always as great as it looks. Focus on the few close friends you know you can count on, the ones that don't gossip behind your back, the ones you can tell everything to because those are the rare ones that are hard to find.
2. You will get through your first heartbreak.
It breaks my heart to know that one day you will know the pain of losing your first love. He'll walk into your life and everything will change. He'll tell you you're beautiful and make you feel wanted. He'll tell you everything you want to hear and then one day he'll walk away like he said he never would. I know it feels like the end. I know you will cry into your pillow at night, wishing it wasn't real. I know you won't eat for days and all you want to do is sleep. I know you can't get yourself to delete the pictures. It's ok to cry, and it's ok to feel hurt. But remember that every heartbreak is a step closer to the right one. I hate to say it but this won't be your last one. Life is full of heartbreak. But you get through it and with every one you are closer to the right one.
3. Never let anyone convince you that you aren't good enough.
You are capable of doing anything that you set your mind to. Have big dreams, and set goals for yourself. There are so many things out there in the world for you to do. The world isn't always a nice place, and people are going to tell you you're not pretty enough or you aren't smart enough. These things are not true. And you don't need those kind of people in your life. Do what you want, do what you love and do it for life. Never let anyone convince you that you aren't good enough.
4. Making mistakes is OK.
No one is perfect. We all have our faults, you and I alike. You'll try to never be a disappointment, and never let us down. There will be times that this happens, and I want you to know it's ok. You're going to make mistakes, it's just part of life. Yes, some are worse than others but the best part about making mistakes is being able to learn from them. Try to find the good in bad situations so that in the future, you can choose differently. Making mistakes helps you grow as a person and learn valuable lessons. So don't be afraid to mess up, it's ok to make mistakes.
5. Know when to stop giving second chances.
Whether it be your best friend, or your boyfriend. Know when it's time to walk away. I want you to believe in yourself and know your self worth. You deserve the absolute best and should never settle for less. I know you've been friends for years, and I know you're in love, but when people stop adding to your life, and you are no longer happy, I need you to know you are strong enough to walk away.
6. Family is forever.
No one will every love you more unconditionally than your parents. Your siblings will look up to you or be your role models. No matter the time, place or situation, they will be there to help you through. They will support you in the decisions you make and whoever you choose to be. Friends will come and go, boyfriends will walk away but family is forever.
These are things all girls should know growing up. Growing up as a girl can be hard. We aren't always taught these things so if you listen to only six things that I'll ever tell you, please listen to them. I want nothing more for you than to be happy and feel loved. Life can get hard at times, and often has a way of putting us through the hardest trials to make us stronger. You are beautiful and I love you.
Love,
Your Momma
