To my daughter on her 10th birthday.
My Precious Baby Girl,
One decade ago you made your grand entrance into this world! You instantly and forever changed our lives – you made me a mommy! Right from the beginning, we saw a special spark in you! You were always full of life and energy! You were bright, determined, and loved a challenge. With your strawberry blonde hair, blue-green eyes, and one dimpled cheek, you were the most adorable little girl I’d ever laid eyes on. You never enjoyed toys much, discontent to pretend play when there was so much to do in “real life.” As bold as you were, there was also an irrational fear of some things… like Tickle-Me Elmos, dancing stuffed chickens, and storms. You were always friendly, talkative, and had a desire to help people in need. One of my favorite things is that your heart was always tender to spiritual things.
The next decade of your life will hold many unique experiences and will shape your future. God has made you with all of these unique character qualities and how you use them will determine the course of your life. Keep that energy level and passion for life! It’s contagious. God has gifted you with an intelligent mind. You’re going to be tempted to coast through. Don’t do it! Keep challenging yourself to learn all that you can and to do not just enough, but your personal best in all things. When you look in the mirror, be satisfied with what you see. You are beautiful just the way God made you, but even so, inward beauty is what really matters. Unless you’re on stage, pretending is a waste of time. Be genuine, even when it makes you feel vulnerable. Seize every opportunity to experience new things as long as they are not harmful or morally wrong. God made this world rich, beautiful, and full of variety – enjoy what He made! Be brave, sweet girl! Irrational fears are little thieves that will steal from you. Be wise and cautious, but live boldly. Don’t fear anything except displeasing your Savior. Choose your friends carefully because they will impact you more than you can imagine. Always be a good listener. You will never regret serving others and treating them with kindness. More than anything, continue to pursue a deeper relationship with your Heavenly Father. All through life you will face successes and failures, triumphs and disappointments. Through it all, remember that God is only ever good. Find in Him true and lasting joy, peace, and contentment. He loves you even more than I ever could. And that is amazing because I never knew how deeply a mother could love until you.
Forever and always, Mommy
