A Letter to My Daughter: What I Want You to See in the Mirror

Dear Faith,

Today the last of the single digits find you: Happy 9th birthday, Faith.

You know I usually spend the weeks leading up to your birthday making jokes about skipping it, how you will not turn the next number. No way no how. You may or may not know I haven’t always relished you growing up.

But this year changed all that. This year, I am not mourning your birthday.

I still marvel at how the days pass slowly but the years fly by. Every mama knows all about that. But if this last year has taught me anything, it’s that nothing’s gained from too much looking over my shoulder towards your younger years. I am soaking up all the birthday fun of nine right alongside you. I am standing on Pike’s Peak and shouting for the world, “My girl is nine today!” I am looking at you in the mirror today, you nine year old rock star. And when you look in the mirror, I hope you see a thing or two.

You’re a work of art. Oh, the world will do it’s best to convince you you’re not beautiful or worthy. It will try to sell you false hopes bottled up in the flavor of the day. Here’s where I give you permission to roll your eyes at every lie it offers. Do you want to know you’re beautiful? Then read beautiful Scripture. Scripture like this will help you see your value not overly or underly, but reality.

You’re capable. You are strong enough to handle anything God asks of you. This year gave you a crash course in this lesson, didn’t it? You know full well that doors closed means other, just-right-for-you doors will be opened. Don’t assume you aren’t cut out to do something. Don’t write something off because at first glance it looks impossible. Some ideas and dreams have a warming up period. Remember what Holley says? You’re already amazing. Don’t listen to the enemy’s voice that says you aren’t enough. That’s a big fat lie. Truth is, the combination of your personality and abilities scare him.

You’re loved.  Every single day, you’re loved. There’s nothing you could do that would cancel this. Let the love of your daddy, mama, brothers, relatives and friends seep into your deepest parts. Know you are a vital link in a family that wants and cherishes you more than you’ll ever know.

You’re imperfect. You have faults just like the rest of us. Acknowledge them but don’t focus on them. Acknowledge them and acknowledge your Savior who is what you aren’t. Jesus does not want or expect perfection, so neither should you.

You’re intelligent. We all are in one area or another, and you’re no exception. Convention says there are nine multiple intelligences. But our God is one of infinite creativity and intelligences, and He plants all kinds of strengths in His children. Don’t let your struggles tell you you’re not smart. Let your strengths confirm otherwise. And girl, you have yourself countless strengths. Remember, God is not One of waste. If He created you, then you’re needed, necessary, and gifted.

You’re wanted. You fit in right at home, darling. If our family was a sundae, you would forever be the cherry on top. You’ll always have a home that welcomes you with wide open arms.

You’re His. You know I often ask you, “Whose child are you?” and you answer, “God’s.” I hope you always believe this. He is crazy about you, Faith. You are His treasured possession and He gives you the best of the best everyday. Believe Him.

I love you,

Mama