When I found out I was having a girl back in 2014, the first thought that came to my mind was that I couldn’t believe it (that is a story for another day and the result of an ultrasound tech writing “It looks like a girl” on our printed sonogram) but secondly, I thought, “Oh, Lord, help me raise her right.”

I think that is a normal fear regardless if you are welcoming a boy or girl, or if you are a first time parent or bringing another child into this world. The truth is the “Oh, Lord, help me raise them right,” thought or ‘fear’ will follow you through life as a parent, not just during those pregnancy and newborn stages. However, raising them ‘right’ is up for interpretation and we can pour our hearts, souls, and well-being into our children as they enter each stage of their life, and yet, one day, in a moment, they will walk out of our home and be tested in the world.

So, dear child, while my hope always is to raise you ‘right,’ what I really mean is this…

• Your best accessory is your smile. When you enter a room, acknowledge those around you with eye contact and a smile. It eases people and is a warm way to make a first impression.
• You are beautiful but you are also more than that. We easily praise people on their looks but fail to compliment their brains, athletic ability, character, and heart, which amounts to so much more in value.
• Treat everyone you meet with the same respect. Titles only matter on a business card. You can achieve just as much, if not more, than the person down the hall with a personal admin, sitting in a plush, shiny suite.
• Always be honest. It is admirable. Even if the truth hurts you and others, at the end of the day, you answer to yourself and I pray you can always go to sleep with a conscious heart.
• When all else fails, call your parents. No matter what, your biggest supporters in this life will be your ‘Mom’ and ‘Dad.’
• Practice forgiveness and empathy. Too often we hold grudges and miss out on meaningful relationships because we can’t let go. Please, let go.
• Treat yourself better than the people you love the most. That is not selfish, that is important. Your well-being is critical to your success and the love you project.
• Perfection does not exist. Do not be fooled by what society pressures on you. Life is messy and unkind. Know that and you won’t be disappointed.
• The smartest people in a room are the ones listening. Learn early in life that listening is a skill that does not come naturally, but if you excel at it, you are among the leaders.
• Don’t burn bridges. Decisions will need to be made and some will not so easy, but always go about your actions and words by remembering that while this world feels big it is quite small, and you actually may never know who is standing on the other side of the bridge you just let burn.
• There will come a point in your life when money actually doesn’t mean anything, but instead, your self-worth and contentment are more powerful and abundant than the zeros in a salary.
• The adage of how you treat someone when no one is looking is exceptionally true. Strive to be the good the world is yearning for.
• Stand up for what you believe, but more importantly remember that what you believe may not align with others and that is okay, I repeat okay. Respect others. Even if their beliefs are not the same as you.
• Be silly and never take yourself too seriously. There is enough seriousness in this world.

And, while I will do my best to raise you the way I feel is ‘right’ and I know my work is never done, I also know one day I will transfer you to the world. From there my hope is my guidance and wisdom, lessons I have learned will stir and spiral somewhere in the depths of your soul, and subconsciously you will bring the world the grace, kindness, and love it so desperately needs.

Love you,

Your Momma.