Stubborn teenage girl, I wish you could appreciate the determination, stubbornness, and desire that flash across your face when you share your passion with the rest of the world. Even when you are angry, lost, or upset, you are so strong. And you are even more beautiful.
Determined young woman, I wish you would live your life for you, now- while you can. Before you become a wife or a mother. The dreams you dream will never go away- make the time to do what makes you happy, no matter how many of your friends and family think you are crazy. You might fall in (and out) of love, follow your heart but listen to your head. You are so smart, so strong, and so beautiful.
Beautiful new bride, I hope you continue to love your new husband as much as you do when you say your vows. Marriage is hard work. It takes commitment, patience, and a whole lot of humor. Let go of your pride, and be a team player. Things will go wrong, you will get mad at each other, and break each other’s hearts. But if you really love each other, the things that are hard will make you stronger, and you will learn what is truly important. He loves you because you are strong, smart, and incredibly beautiful. Because you are you.
Tired new mommy, I wish you knew how fast those babies grow, how fast they change, how quickly they become sweet little children and then stubborn teenagers. You probably feel like you have lost a little piece of your identity since that baby came along; parts that used to be taught and firm now jiggle and sag. Instead of little black dresses and high heels, you {try to} feel sexy in blue jeans and an oversized sweatshirt. The truth is, though, is that you are more beautiful now than you have ever been- if you feel like you bear the scars of battle, remember- you won the greatest battle of all- to provide life to a precious child. Your beauty is so much more than skin deep; not only are you strong, smart, and beautiful, you are loved more than you could ever know.
To the woman looking in the mirror in the morning, I hope you soften your jaw a little and your heart as you take a good look at yourself. All those lines, gray hairs, and even the evil little whiskers that irritate the hell out of you are a monument to the years you have lived. Beauty is not perfect; yet you are perfect in the eyes of those that love you. Be kind to yourself. Take a minute to look at that girl in the mirror, and give her the respect she is due. Let today be the day you show yourself some love.
My friend, I hope you know you are intelligent. You are strong. You are beautiful- and don’t you ever forget it. Live each day like it is your last, love with your whole heart, and share your passion with the world. The world deserves to see your beauty- both outside and in. Be brave. Be kind. Just be you.