When I look at you, I am filled with thankfulness. You are a beauty. I don't mean that you are pretty to look at (you are!) but your sweet smile shows me the love that you have for others and the joy in your heart. It's not always easy being the youngest in the family and I admire how you push yourself to keep up with your older brothers and ask for help if you need it. Those are great skills; determination and self-awareness.
This past year we have welcomed another child into our home–a foster sibling. I was worried that you would feel left out and miss your role as the baby in the family; I could not have been more wrong. You savour the role of big sister and "Little Mommy." You have demonstrated so much grace and love by extending a hand, smile, and word of encouragement. Never underestimate the power of those things, Baby Girl. I have been a recipient of your daily encouragement and it always seemed to come right when I needed it–"Mom, you're such a good driver", "Mom, you are so beautiful" "Do you need a princess hug today, mommy?" and "I'm so glad you're my mommy."
When I think about what your future might look like, part of me wants to try to keep suffering away from you; life can be so tough. However, I know that through disappointment, hardship, and loss, you will learn who are you are and where your strength comes from. You will see that you can do it. You will carry on. You will fail (I failed my driver's test the first time and so did your dad!) but I hope you maintain perspective about what really matters in life...and try again. I will always be here for you, as will your dad and brothers. No matter what, we will love you forever and always.
I remember hard times of friendships gone wrong, words that hurt, and situations where I felt left out–I'm pretty sure this is part of almost everyone's story. My hope is that you will recognize that your worth does not come from being accepted by the "cool kids", having a boyfriend, excelling in school, or how put together you look. You are YOU. You were made to be YOU. You are strong, Baby Girl. Be YOU.
One thing I have realized over the years is that it's hard not knowing what is going to happen..or how...or when...or even why something has occurred. You can wrestle with these things but I hope that you can have a sense of peace knowing that God is in control. He's got you. He is strong and will hold you up–even when you feel like you are barely moving.
My prayer is that you continue to love others deeply and always know that you are loved. Listen to others; by listening you will not only learn but you will give someone the gift of being heard. You are so very special to us. Be YOU.
Love,
Mommy
The Elle Est Forte shirt in this post is by SHE IS Clothing out of Langley, BC. I have a "few" of Kim's shirt as I love the inspiration behind them–Proverbs 31:25. Every time I look in the mirror I think "Yes, I am. I've got this. I'm not alone." Right now there is a promo for 10% off products from SHE IS Clothing with the code: TALKNDERY10. This cannot be combined with other offers and you do need to pay for shipping.
"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." Proverbs 31:25
A beautiful letter to your daughter, Louise, and such cute accompanying photos!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Carol. She is my sunshine :) Okay, one of them!
DeleteBeautiful as always Louise. Love reading your work. Also loved the shirts and placed an order :)
ReplyDeleteTHank you, Jenn :) Awesome that you placed an order, we love our shirts!
DeleteThis is beautiful, Louise!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kelly!
DeleteSo beautiful! She is an absolute doll!
ReplyDeleteI think so! Can she stay little?!
DeleteI love having a daughter and your letter to yours made me want to have a good cry. So special. What a great mom she has. So great for her to have these things written down, straight from your heart. You articulate so much of how I feel. I'm encouraged to do a better job expressing it.
ReplyDelete