Dear daughter,
You are so precious to me.
I’ve watched you grow from a baby, totally dependent on your dad and me for everything, to a strong, independent young woman.
You stand on the brink of an unknown future. Yes, you seem to know the very next step. But you have no idea how your life will unfold. The coming years are full of mystery, brimming with hope and promise,
As I stand behind you now, watching as you prepare to launch out on your own, I have so many thoughts I want to share with you.
Yet, as in many areas of life, there are lessons you’ll have to learn on your own.
I believe that God has great plans for your life. If you’re willing to ask for His guidance and wait patiently for his leadership, you’ll accomplish much for His kingdom.
And, if you’ll allow me, I’ll just share a few pieces of advice.
Don’t settle for less than God’s best in any part of your life.
Yes, I’m thinking specifically of the guys you’ll date – and, if God wills, that one you’ll fall in love with. It’s such an important decision, this choosing of your life’s partner. Wait for the one who makes you a better person, who loves God and cherishes you.
From the activities you participate in to the career field you study, look to God for guidance. Be faithful to read and study His Word. Seek his face in prayer often.
Be humble, but know your worth. You’re a daughter of the King and He has an amazing plan for you.
Also, don’t get caught up in short-term thinking. Have fun, enjoy the moment, but realize that you have the opportunity now to begin the life you want to have long-term.
Give money generously. Save regularly and spend wisely.
Build relationships that allow you to be encouraged as well as be an encouragement.
You have so much potential! If you’ll follow God and allow him to direct your steps, the results will be extraordinary.
It won’t always be easy. Life just doesn’t work that way. You’ll make mistakes. Hard days and disappointments will find you.
But look for God in those times. For it’s there that you’ll likely grow the most. The struggles will shape you into the person He’d have you become.
Be brave and courageous. Work hard, be kind, have fun. And I’ll be here cheering you on as you step into the bright future He has planned for you.
Love,
Mom
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I might print this out for my oldest daughter, if you don’t mind. 😊
Of course! You may use it however you wish 🙂
Amen! Amen! Amen!
Catching up here! I’m purposely not blogging as much anymore – although I did finally post our UK trip tonight = 3 months after coming home! 😜 – b/c JB’s family stalks our blog (they’re not on any other social media) and after a hugely traumatic betrayal from them this year, we just don’t want to share as much as we did. I toyed with quitting blogging altogether (no! I still want to share occasionally!), changing it to password-only access (but I don’t want it to be hidden from people who want my travel notes – 2 people have already done my Turkey itinerary this year!), or starting a whole new blog instead (but Annelise loves looking back on our family memories in this one consolidated place, so I don’t really want to give that up, either.) I’ve been praying about options, and I just don’t have peace in my heart from the Holy Spirit about anything else, yet, so for now, until I get a clear word – or even just a knowing in my heart – I’ll still stay blogging the same place, just not as often. 👍
It’s so good to hear from you!! Sorry you’ve had the family issue, but for my part, I’m glad you’re not giving up blogging altogether! 🙂
Can’t wait to go read about your UK trip!