A New Years Message to My Daughter
My Dearest Daughter,
The years are going by too fast. With each fleeting moment I savor our time together with both joy and sadness, watching you on the verge of an incredible transition as you complete your senior year and prepare for college. Soon, you’ll step into a new world and embark on the next chapter of your life, ready to explore it on your own terms with brilliance, passion and heart. I feel immensely proud of what you’ve accomplished and excited for all of the great things ahead. At the same time, I know our home will feel different; less banter, energy and fullness once the day comes when you’re not here every day.
Last year showed me the possibilities that await you. I’ll always remember the evening we sat together to watch the presidential debates. Seeing a woman of color as the Democratic candidate on that stage was a powerful moment. You looked at me and said, “That could be me one day.” Hearing you say those words reminded me of the strength and potential you carry. That moment highlighted the importance of role models and the gift this moment provided in being able to see a reflection of yourself reaching the highest levels of our society — and because of that, the limitless possibilities that are ahead for you.
As you prepare to step into this new chapter and embrace all that the new year will bring, I want you to know the pride I feel — not just of your achievements but of the person you’ve become. You’ve led your school’s Black Student Union, excelled in track, worked part-time, and have always supported your friends and family with kindness and grace. I see the determination and responsibility you carry, and while your sense of responsibility makes me happy, I also know how heavy it can feel at times and I want you to know you don’t have to do it all.
The world is not always welcoming, and you’ve experienced challenges that many don’t face. You’ve lived outside your home country and was forced to start anew and deal with feelings of exclusion, feeling unseen and misunderstood, and yet you conquered those challenges with fierce determination and a positive spirit while making sure you used your voice to create space and community for others. My prayers are that you continue to lead with courage, but also to remember to preserve your well-being. You deserve rest, recharge, and restoration and to focus on what fills your heart and spirit and those things that fuels you to push on.
As you continue your journey and step into a new year, there are a few lessons I hope you hold close:
- Make space for what nourishes you. Life will pull you in many directions, but you must protect the things that fill your cup and give you energy. Whether it’s running track, volunteering, doing extracurricular activities or spending time with our goldendoodle, Rosie, make room for those moments that give you peace, joy and bring you back to yourself.
- Take your time and pace yourself. Life is not a race to be won. Prioritize what matters and take the time to experience all that you are going through. Growth comes not from doing everything but from deeply engaging with what truly matters, and sometimes even moving slow to go fast and accomplish those things that are most important to you.
- Stay true to who you are. The world may try to shape you into something you’re not; your authenticity is your most powerful asset. The beauty of you illuminates the world and people around you. Don’t lose that. Be sure to surround yourself with those who celebrate and support who you are at your core.
When I was younger, I worried too much about fitting in and trying to meet the expectations of others. Over time, I learned the value of having deeper, more meaningful relationships and the peace and contentment felt in being true to myself. You’ve already shown a maturity and clarity I didn’t have at your age, and are so much farther along that path than I was. My hope is that you continue to thrive in this way and grow.
Watching you navigate the world with such grace, intention and purpose inspires me daily. You remind me to approach life with courage, to keep evolving, and to believe in a future where all things are possible. You teach me every day through your outlook, energy and attitude — and for that, I am endlessly grateful.
As you step into the new year where you will be met with many new discoveries and changes, I want you to know how prepared, capable, and loved you are. Whatever challenges come your way, you have the strength and resilience to face them all. I will always be here cheering you on, filled with faith, pride and a love beyond measure.
Now go show the world what you’re made of — you’ve got this, and if you ever run for President, you know I’ll be your first vote and your forever champion!
Love with all my heart,
Mommy
