A Letter to My Young Child

My precious child,

I wish I could be there to see who you become, but since I can't, I want you to know some things.

First: you are loved. Completely, unconditionally, from the moment I first held you. Nothing you do or don't do will ever change that. My love for you is the one thing in this world that's absolutely certain.

Second: it's okay to be sad. Missing someone is how we honor the love we shared. But please don't let sadness be all there is. I want you to laugh, to play, to dream big dreams.

Third: you are stronger than you know. Life will be hard sometimes, and you'll wonder if you can handle it. You can. I've seen your courage, your kindness, your resilience. Trust yourself.

Finally: live your own life. Not the one I might have imagined for you, but the one that makes your heart full. Take risks. Make mistakes. Fall in love. Be curious. Be kind.

I am so proud to be your parent. That pride will never fade.

Love forever,
Your parent