Dear Daughter,
From the moment I held you in my arms, a tiny bundle of potential and promise, I knew that this day would eventually arrive. It seemed so distant, a mere abstraction, as I watched you play in the backyard, imagining the incredible woman you would become. Yet, like a fleeting dream, the years have sped by, and now the reality of your departure for a new adventure looms before us. It feels as though I blinked and suddenly, we are here – on the brink of a new chapter in both our lives.
As I reflect on the memories we’ve woven together, from your strong leadership on the playground to the compassion you showed your classmates, I’m overwhelmed by pride and a tinge of bittersweet nostalgia. People often say to cherish every moment, for they vanish swiftly. I wish I had truly understood their heartfelt advice, taking more time to savor those precious days at home.
In sharing with new mothers, I often find myself echoing these same sentiments – the swiftness of time’s passage and the inevitability of our children spreading their wings. It’s a lesson that someday you’ll also understand when you enter into motherhood.
Your decision to move across the country for school speaks volumes about your independence and courage. Leaving the familiar behind and stepping out of the comfort zone that has been “home,” is a brave choice. My heart aches as I grasp the significance of this moment, but deep down, I knew it was coming. While denial occasionally wraps around me, I am countered with pride in the person you’ve become.
There are days when tears flow freely and my heart feels heavy. No parenting manual prepares you for this moment. As I grapple with letting go, questions whirl in my mind: Have I done enough? Did I impart the right values? Do you believe in yourself as much as I believe in you?
Let me share three profound truths that I hold dear, and I hope you will carry them with you as you fly this nest.
First, you are enough. Your identity is a masterpiece, intricately woven by the hands of the Creator. From the depths of your being to the heights of your aspirations, every facet of you is deliberate. In the journey ahead, never let insecurity undermine the remarkable person you are. Embrace your uniqueness and pursue your dreams with unwavering confidence knowing that our Heavenly Father will guide your every step.
Second, you are never alone. Despite the physical distance that may separate us, remember that you are never truly alone. In times of solitude, when my arms can’t encircle you, His divine embrace will. When my words can’t guide you, His wisdom will illuminate your path. When you run to him for peace, He will catch your tears and when you yearn for a refuge, He will be your safe haven. Amid the echoes of silence you may experience, He remains your steadfast companion.
Third, you can achieve anything. The seeds of greatness were sown within you long before your journey commenced. Each step you’ve taken, every lesson learned, has led you to this moment. Your purpose awaits, and as you step into the world, remember that you’re destined to be a catalyst for change, a beacon of hope in your generation. With Him as your guide, you’ll find the strength to overcome challenges, the resilience to rise, and the courage to manifest His love in the world.
Dearest daughter, my heart swells with love and pride for the individual you’ve become. As you spread your wings and explore the horizons that are upon you, remember that He remains as your constant source.
With all my love,
Your Mom
My Dearest Mom,
As I sit down to write this letter I’m overwhelmed with a mix of emotions, but mostly I am filled with an eager anticipation of the new chapter that’s about to come. It’s not easy for me to express this, but please understand that my excitement to venture into the world on my own isn’t meant to hurt you. I cherish our family and the memories we’ve shared so far. Nevertheless, I yearn to embark on this journey of self-discovery, to understand who I truly am beyond the confines of our home.
My upcoming adventure at Bethel feels like a dream come true. I know without a doubt that God has led me to this decision. I carry your love, support, and unwavering belief in my abilities with me as I go.
Though I look forward to the exhilarating independence of college life, there are certain things I’ll undoubtedly miss – your warm breakfast sandwiches that taste better when you make them, our nail dates that were more about bonding than beautifying, and our impromptu Target runs that somehow always ended up being a fun adventure.
You can feel confident knowing you’ve taught me a lot in the kitchen! I don’t think I’ll struggle to make myself a beautiful meal. Your patient teaching has armed me with the culinary skills to fend for myself in the kitchen.
There are three things I want you to understand as I embark on this exciting journey:
First, there may be moments when I pull back. You might wonder if I’m drifting away. Please don’t be disheartened by this. It’s not a reflection of my love for you or my appreciation for everything you’ve done. Rather, it’s my way of seeking some space to explore my own identity. I might not call as frequently as you’d like, but please remember that distance does not diminish my love for you. College life promises to be a whirlwind of activity, and I’m eager to make new friends and build new connections while keeping you close in my heart.
Second, you have taught me to love Jesus. Your unwavering faith, your devotion to Jesus, and your unyielding commitment to living a life of love and compassion have been the most powerful lessons I could have received. You’ve been my role model in what it means to be a good friend, a devoted daughter, and a person who carries His light wherever she goes. Your influence has shaped me in ways I can’t fully express.
Third, know that I love you. The past few years may have been tumultuous at times, but it’s all been part of my search for identity and independence. My love for you is unwavering, and I cherish every moment we’ve spent together. I couldn’t have asked for a better mom.
I know that when the day comes for me to leave, tears will flow. I anticipate this moment with a heavy heart too, but please don’t cry too hard. This separation is just a chapter in our lives, and I’m confident that it will lead to both of us growing, learning, and becoming better versions of ourselves. It’s not goodbye forever; it’s just “see you soon.”
Mom, you’ve given me roots, and now it’s time for me to find my wings. As I step out into the world, I carry your wisdom, your love, and the values you’ve instilled in me.
Thank you for everything, Mom. This journey is just beginning.
With all my love,
Your Daughter
Written by : Alisha Anderson
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