A Letter To My Daughter

Dear Mila,

I never knew how much my heart would grow when I had you. I knew that I was destined to be a mother all along, however, I did have some thoughts that would try to tell me otherwise. Since I am not much of talker, my thoughts reside in the depths of my soul. I am not sure if you will grow up to claim that trait as well, but regardless, I wanted to share those thoughts with you.

As a woman, I would have my share of worries. When I look at your sweet little hands and feet, I can't help myself to think that I wouldn't want anything bad to happen to you. If I could shield you from the wickedness that is in this world, I would. If I could protect you from people that have ulterior motives, I would, however, life doesn't work like that. I never knew that becoming your mother would give me a certain understanding of God and His love for us as His children. Just like I want to give you the best the world has to offer, He too, wants the same for all of us. My prayer is that you would gain a greater understanding of Him as your Heavenly Father. As your parents, we are not perfect because we are human, but God is perfect in all ways and He wants to give you the best. The truth is that I may not be able to protect you from many things that are yet to come, but I want you to know that if you know the TRUTH, it will always guide you on the right path.

When I was much younger, I always told myself that I want to live my life in a way where my children would be proud to follow. I knew that I wouldn't want to raise my children in the opposite way of how I lived my life, because that would be hypocritical of me. I knew that my decisions today would affect my future, even if I made mistakes. I didn't want to tell my children that I lived a dishonest life. I wanted to live the life of purity. This is not to say that I was perfect in any way, after all I did make mistakes, however, my dedication to live a life of purity would always pick me up and set me on the right path of thinking. I thought about you even before your Dad and I met.

I do not know which path you will decide to follow, but it was my prayer in my own youth that you would choose to live a life of purity. I am not only referring to the physical aspect of purity but spiritual, emotional, social and etc. In other words, to live a truthful life. The moment that you stop living authentically, is the moment that you stop contributing to this world and this society. You are unique. You have special gifts and talents, but above all else, there will never be another woman like you. I remember reading the poem by Mother Theresa called 'Do It Anyway,' and it touched me very deeply. (read it below) I always told myself that I am strong enough to be on my own. I didn't need people. Even though it is good to be confident in yourself, eventually you will have to learn to be vulnerable with people that you trust. Along the path of life you will meet all kinds of people. You will have relationships that will come and go, but most importantly remember to be true to yourself and be kind to others by loving them just as Christ loves you with an unconditional love. 

One day, when you're old enough to understand. I hope that this letter brings joy to your heart and lets you know how much I love you. My love and appreciation has grown for you above and beyond since I wrote this letter. I hope that you're always reminded of that and that you stay true to who God made you to be. You are beautiful, intelligent and virtuous woman of God.

Love,

Mom