My beautiful, one-of-a-kind Marley Darley,

You are getting ready to leave for a once in a lifetime opportunity to compete for the title of Miss Teen USA. I have watched you take on this journey, so many years ago. We became fast friends in 2009 when we competed together at the Little Miss South Carolina pageant, and I am forever thankful for the memories we share not only here in Hartsville, but beyond. Your friendship means the world to me. I can't explain what draws us together, but I do know that this friendship was Divinely made and is one that will last forever. There are a few things I want to let you know before you leave for Vegas, and I figured this was the best way to do it. (I'm pretty sure other people will agree with me on these things, as well.)

1. You are fearfully and wonderfully made by a perfect Creator.

You were made in the image of Jesus, and that is something to be proud of. Regardless of the outcome of our time in Vegas, your eternal crown and the title of a daughter of the King will always be more important than any crown or title you win here on Earth.

2. You are special to so many people.

I know there are times you feel like you aren't good enough. But my dear Marley, you are so so wonderful. I love your sense of humor. I love the way you cut your eyes when I'm sarcastic with you. I love your goofy sayings, including "OK Pedro!" and all the other annoying ones. Your smile and laugh light up a room. You are you, and I love and respect you so much for that.

3. You have confidence like no one else I know.

I pick on you about it, but your confidence is something that commands so much respect and attention, a quality that a lot of people try to attain their whole life, but never do. Don't you dare ever let ANYONE take that away from you or try to tear you down. There will be haters. There will always be haters. But as we say, let your haters be your motivators. Don't let anyone ever tell you you're not enough.

4. You are not just a pretty face.

You have a kind heart and great personality. Let that shine through in your interview and the entire time you're at Teen USA. If you let them even see a glimpse of your true self, they will love you half as much as I do (because there's no way anyone can ever love you as much as I do - OK, maybe your parents can but that's it). You are a force, not a face. And honey, you are a force to be reckoned with.

5. I believe in you.

You are beautiful. You are intelligent. You are funny. You are talented. You are creative. You were made for this. Now it's time to believe in yourself.

I feel so blessed to have been by your side on this journey and all others you have embarked on. I am over the moon excited that I get to journey with you to Las Vegas and watch you compete for Miss Teen USA. Be confident. Be calm. Be you. Be a light. You were created for such a time as this. You can do this. I am beyond proud of you, title or no title. Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for being such a blessing to me. I love you more than words can say. Now, go KILL that stage in Vegas!!!

Love,

your Lilly