37 Things I want my daughter(s) to know...My version

As the mother of a now eight year-old, I am suddenly struck by all the things I want to instill in my daughter(s) about how special she is, the importance of being true to your heart, how to be a good friend, and so much more. A mother’s greatest aspiration is to see her children lead happy, rich, fulfilling lives. As I watched my little girl wake up this morning as a beautiful 8 year old, my mind is filled with all the wishes I hold in my heart for her happiness. If I could, I would giftwrap the world for her. I would create a new world designed to delight her. There is nothing that makes me feel happier or more content than to see joy on my child’s face.

I know that I cannot (and should not) make my daughter’s life perfect. I know that eventually she will venture out into the world on her own. She will have to face her own dragons and learn many things the hard way. I know that most of what I tell her – even the things I might whisper earnestly in the quiet dark of her room while she sleeps – will remain unheard and unheeded for a very long time. It won’t matter how much I tell her and how many warnings I give- she has to experience life and do things on her own. I am realizing that my place now is to sit on the sidelines a bit more. I will always be here for her and ready to cheer, help and protect. The time has come though that I watch and let her go out and experience things- a bit more, but NOT too much!!!!

There are things I want my daughter to always remember. I will tell her these things – today, tomorrow, and the day after that, and the day after that. I will repeat them over and over until they echo so clearly in her head that they might be mistaken for her own thoughts. These are the things that I believe will help her create her happiness – grow it in her own heart instead of ceaselessly searching for it in other people and places and pursuits.

1.You are SPECIAL.
2.There is no one else exactly like you in the whole world. Cherish your unique self. God made you EXACTLY how you should be…EMBRACE it!
3.Enjoy the INNOCENCE of your childhood.-
In a world full of superficial values, peer pressure, and bullying, as well as a pop culture that pushes materialism and consumerism – you are being leapfrogged through your childhood. There is a constant pressure for you to grow up way too fast. I mean, when did 5 become the new 10, anyway?Grow slowly.
4.You DESERVE love, admiration, honesty, respect, and second chances.
5. You have the right to use your VOICE – any time, any place, on any topic.
6. You are BEAUTIFUL
7. Beauty is as beauty does and while physical beauty is fleeting, a beautiful soul lasts forever.
8. TRUE friends make you laugh and feel good about yourself.
9. TRUE love makes you want to be a better person.
10. Girls can do ANYTHING boys can do … and some things boys can’t.
11. Magic is real – you just have to know where to look for it.
12. Taking time for yourself is important – be your own best friend.
13. You can always come home. ALWAYS
14. You can tell me anything.
15. You don’t always have to follow the rules, but …
16. … always follow your heart.
17. You are a creative genius and your creations are your gift to the world. Give them freely and joyfully.
18. There’s no such thing as failure. Learn from every experience.
19. You are loved more than you will know until you have your own child.
20. Anything is possible if you believe.
21. Be spiritual and give thanks to God- know what you believe, why and truly believe and live it
22. Go after your passion with a vengeance, but …
23. … remember to slow down and savor the journey along the way.
24. Sometimes it’s okay to eat dessert first.
25. Don’t wait for things to be “perfect” before you do something.
26. Keep your eye on the Big Picture, but revel in the details.
27. Trust yourself. You are smart enough, strong enough, and brave enough.
28. Be a sister. Be a friend. Be a protector.
29. It’s okay if you don’t know the answers. Sometimes it’s a better place to start from.
30. The Golden Rule is the easiest standard by which to measure any choice.
31. Travel is the best teacher, but always be safe and be wise. The world is a beautiful place, but it is not without its sharp edges.
32. Never compromise your beliefs – not for stature, approval, or anything else.
33. Manners count.
34. Learn to laugh at yourself and life will suddenly seem much easier.
35. It’s okay to be fragile sometimes. Life can be like that.
36. I am ALWAYS so proud of you.
37. I will ALWAYS be with you. Even when I’m gone I will be holding you in my heart and wrapping my love around you.