Dear hair,

We have come a long way. From different styles to different textures, to different products, we have seen it all. I know that I have made you endure too many trials to count, and I just want to say thank you for your patience and perseverance throughout it all.

I know that you don't like to talk a lot, or at all, but sometimes I swear it feels like you're screaming at me to stop stressing out so much because it's affecting you and your wellbeing. I get it, I shouldn't be so hard on myself all the time, and all it does is hurt you at the end of the day…I'm truly sorry for that. I'm sorry for not believing in you, and for not giving you time to grow and see your potential through.

My whole life I have been trying to make you something that you're not, and have hated you for always being so difficult. I realize now that the one being difficult was me, and it's not your fault that you are the way that you are.

I remember when I wanted to make you straight so bad like the hair I used to admire so much, but you were not here for it, and I understand why now. You are unique to me alone, and I am learning to embrace the fact that you're different and have a mind of your own.

You have stayed strong through all of the diversity and changes that have come your way. Don't get me wrong, you're not perfect. You tend to be difficult to work with and a pain to handle, but you're worth putting in the extra effort.

I've been so lazy when it comes to you. I feel like I gave up on you a long time ago, yet you were still there for me, I'm sorry about that. I'm sorry that it's taken 19 years for me to see how beautiful you are, and to embrace your beauty.

At one point in my life you only had a couple of strands, but now look at you! You've gotten so long and thick, and have cast out all of the chemicals to finally be in your natural state. Your curls are popping up bigger and better than ever, and I owe it all to you.

I know that relationships are a two-way street, and I have been slacking on my end for far too long, but thank you for always managing to do your part. You have stuck with me this long, and I have never really appreciated you until now. You have given me confidence, and the extra physical touch of beauty that I tend to cling on to so much.

I am looking forward to all of our future adventures together, and am excited and grateful to always have you by my side.

One more thing, thank you for being there for me when I wasn't there for myself, you are truly a gift from God. I will always love you, even though I may not always show it.

Love,

Elise Williams