Hey,

Brown-skin girl, ray of sunshine, hot on a summer’s day, clad in your signature combat boots and leather jacket: I am so proud of you. You have come so far in this world. Many have doubted who you’d become. You have handled all of the trials thrown in your wake and understand what it takes to prosper in the world—a world that would see you as less than the woman you are. You have made your own opportunities.

You’ve determined that your love is priceless. You have endured countless relationships realizing that not all will see your worth. This is their problem, not yours. You're waiting on a king who has accepted you for all your flaws. He understands that you’re an independent woman, a go-getter, god fearing, and honest. I am proud that you set your limits so high that this man is independent, a go-getter, god fearing, and honest.

Hey, brown-skin girl, ray of sunshine, hot on a summer’s day, clad in your signature combat boots and leather jacket: I am so proud of you. You are no longer that 15-year-old girl that cried at your mother’s feet because you were unsure what your purpose was. You have overcame all the fears of feeling inadequate. You stop letting influences impact your appearance. You have accepted your natural curves, your kinky hair, and the many imperfections that you have. You stopped comparing yourself to others and came to the conclusion you are unique. God designed you and no carbon copy could compare.

I am so proud that you kept your family by your side. You set limits and they were beside you at every turn. You did not let obstacles in your way ruin you. You realized God had a plan and you accepted it even when you feared he didn’t have a plan for you at all. I am proud that you can read this and smile because you know everything is true.

Brown-skin girl, you’ve made it far. Bask in this moment. Reminisce on the past and look how far you have come. You are loved. Thank you for keeping God by your side at all times. Thank you for realizing how important your culture is. Be proud, Black woman, you have made it far. Remember that if you ain't got nothing you will always have you, but you are never alone.

Goodbye, brown-skin girl, ray of sunshine on a summer’s day, clad in your signature combat boots and leather jacket.

Sincerely yours,

THE FUTURE