I Hope You Learn These Things from My Mistakes

Dear Baby Girl ,

I’ve prayed for you every day since before you were born. I prayed for all ten fingers and each of your toes. I thought about what you would look like and all the big things you would do one day. I read all the books, blogs, and took all the classes. I was as ready as I was ever going to be.

The moment they placed you into my arms my life instantly changed. It was the moment I knew that it was you and me forever, no matter what.

I am so humbled and grateful God trusted me to be your momma.

I’ve loved watching you grow into the independent, intelligent, and vivacious little girl you are today. You’ve taught me patience, and compassion in depths I never could’ve comprehended. You’ve pushed me to be better, act better, and do better. Things I never knew I needed to do.

I have struggled relentlessly to find the balance of loving you, and all that I desire to provide for you. I find myself constantly falling short of what I know you deserve.

I hope that one day you understand that I tried, and above all else, I pray that you will have learned a few things from my mistakes:

Stick to Your Convictions

There will be people you meet throughout your life who have contradicting beliefs, come from different backgrounds, and have their own experiences that shape their views and perspectives. These are the people who will make you question things- don’t. Stick to what you know, hold true to yourself. Do not allow yourself to mold for the sake of acceptance; It’s okay if people don’t like you.

If you ever start to lose yourself for the sake of someone else I hope that you’ll ask yourself why you want to be friends with them anyways; I pray that you’ll always remember who to go to for help when you’re doubting what your heart is telling you.

Stay Humble

You’re not better than anyone. Get good grades, get a good job, but always know that you’re not above anyone else. God has created every person with purpose, including the ones you don’t care for- and the moment you forget this, God will remind you.

Be Kind

There will be people who mistreat you, disrespect you, and cross your boundaries. Stand your ground, do what’s right, but be kind to them, they need it. Be kind even during the times when you have every reason not to be.

Aim for Progress, not Perfection

Dream big, shoot for the stars, and never stop growing, but don’t you ever let it consume you. The moment you start weighing your worth against your goals, you need to re-evaluate. You’re allowed to want more for yourself, but don’t ever compare your end-results to your current reality until you’ve accomplished that end goal.

The perfectionism mindset will destroy you and hinder your growth. So, allow yourself to seek joy in failure.

Forgive and Love Yourself

First and foremost, understand how powerful your thoughts are. Every thought you have is a seed that will grow, so plant the pretty things. Give yourself pep talks, schedule time for self-care, and always cheer yourself on in everything you do.

Do it with Passion or not at all

You’ll hit phases in your life where you’ll feel forced to make decisions. Make sure it’s what your heart wants and not something you’re resorting to out of desperation. Design your life the way you want it to be. The money will never suffice happiness, and if you’re not happy because you’re chasing monetary significance, I’ve failed you.

Do it Scared

You will have endless opportunities, don't let fear be the reason you don't pursue it. Be scared, be uncomfortable, and do it anyways. You are always being guided, but fear will pop up to detour you. Remember where fear comes from, and be able to differentiate.

One day you'll be facing life's challenges without me by your side. I believe in you and have faith you'll move mountains one day with your fierceness. Just remember to call your mom, and never lose your faith.

I’ve prayed, and will continue to pray every day for you, baby girl.

Love,

Mommy