A Letter to my “Tween-age” Daughter

My sweet girl,

As you grow into these in-between years—no longer little, but not quite grown—I want you to carry these truths with you. Someday you’ll be taller than me, chasing dreams I can’t yet imagine, but I hope these words will echo in your heart when you need them most:

• You are deeply loved…more than you could possibly imagine. Nothing you could ever do will change that.
• You don’t have to be perfect. Mistakes are how you learn, and they never change your worth.
• Your kindness is one of your superpowers. Never underestimate how much good your beautiful smile brings into a hurting world.
• It’s okay to feel big emotions. You don’t need to hide them—learn from them, understand what they mean, and express them in healthy ways. But remember, they don’t define you.
• You shine brightest when you’re true to yourself and God’s Word. Don’t dim your light to fit in with others. And don’t second-guess what you know is absolute truth just because others don’t believe it.
• Your dreams matter. Even the little ones are worth holding close and working toward. Sometimes the journey will take you on the scenic route—it may take longer than expected, but don’t give up. Keep going, and enjoy the views along the way.
• Beauty is not what you see in the mirror.
  True beauty isn’t found in your hairstyle, the color of your eyes, the freckles on your face, or the clothes that you wear. It’s found deep within—how you love, how you laugh, and how you make others feel seen and cared for.
• You are stronger than you think.
  Every challenge you face will grow you in ways you can’t yet see. When things get tough, keep your eyes on God and press forward—because with His help, you can do all things.
• I believe in you—always. Even when you don’t believe in yourself. I’ll always be here. No matter how old you get, my arms and my heart are your safe place…forever.

One day, you’ll read these words with grown-up eyes, but for now, just know this: you are already everything you need to be, and the world is brighter because you are in it.

I love you always,

Mom