Dear baby, I want you to know the world

The first time I held my daughter, the world instantly became so big and so small at the same time.

Holding her felt like a promise. I felt her potential, her possibility. I saw everything she could be in an instant.

But I worried. I worried, what if I wasn’t enough? What if I failed to teach her everything she needed to know? What if I didn’t push her to become all she could be—or pushed too hard?

I can’t guarantee I’ll be the perfect mama (sorry, kiddo!), but I’ll feel I’ve done my job if you grow up feeling that same confidence I had in you the first time our eyes met.

And so, my baby, here is what I want you to know about yourself and the world:

Dear baby, I want you to know…you are capable of more than you know.

I’m your mom, so it might be hard for you to trust me on this one, but please, know that your limits only exist in your mind. You can do so much more than you can even imagine right now. Try new things. Tackle new challenges. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. You will always be a success to me.

Dear baby, I want you to know…things may not always be easy or go your way.

And that’s okay! It’s normal even. If I could give you one piece of advice, it would be to ride those storms. They will make you stronger and show you what you’re made of. When you fail, when you make mistakes, when things don’t turn out how you anticipated, learn what you can from those moments and have the confidence to try again.

Dear baby, I want you to know…there is so much for you to discover—about the world and yourself.

I hope your world will always feel big. I hope you remember that, while your perspective is important, it is only one of so many. Open your heart to the opinions and viewpoints of others, and don’t be afraid of the differences you will discover—treasure them.

Dear baby, I want you to know…the best things about the future are unexpected.

As much as I wish I could prepare you for everything, I can’t. Because life is unpredictable, and because I hope you will experience so many things even beyond what I know. Your future is limitless—so please never feel fenced in by unforeseen challenges. Embrace life’s unanticipated adventures, and know I’m always here to help you.

Dear baby, I want you to know…you can make a difference.

The world will not always be friendly. It will disappoint you at times. There are so many things that need fixing, but you can be someone who does so much good. There is no such thing as a small act of kindness—they all matter in the end. Be the one who sticks up for the person who needs it. Be the one who chooses bravery and kindness. You can do anything you put your mind to.

My darling child, you will always be my greatest adventure. I can’t wait to see what yours will be.

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