For a while, I have been pondering over the idea of penning a letter to my daughter, despite not having one. Over the years, I have been mulling over the message I would like to convey to her if the Lord permits me to do so. I understand that some individuals prefer face-to-face interactions with their children, but these thoughts persistently occupy my mind, urging me to put them into words. I promise not to let them down.
Dear Daughter,
I have already selected a name for you that holds great significance for me. You see, when I was expecting you a few years back, I began searching for a name that would suit you perfectly. There were numerous beautiful options, but I was certain that the name I would pick would reveal more about your identity. My name, Bridgid, serves as a prime example. I am not very familiar with its history, but I've often found myself calmly and sometimes at great expense, working to unite people or situations. We will discuss this later, dear daughter. It is important to note that names carry meanings, and once you discover yours, you will understand that God loves you deeply and will guide you on your path, shaping you into the person He intended you to be.
From the moment you entered this world, it was clear to me that you were the most precious present from above. Your eyes, delicate skin, and tiny lips that mirrored mine were beyond valuable. You brought me closer to the heavens and allowed me to touch the divine! I recall the moments of holding you close, cherishing every second. How could heaven bestow such a charming little one upon me? I must admit, I did not deserve you, yet I was given a second chance at life, and I seized it with all my being. Your sweet smell, the smile on your face while sleeping, and the way you stretched your tiny hands brought me immense happiness! I found myself dreaming of your smiles and waking up to see you smiling. It's undeniable that you were an excellent breast feeder. Oh, I had to eat more than usual because you were always hungry! You were a very easy baby compared to me, who often caused trouble for my mom. You had a great sense of humor and your dad was always there to protect you from anything or anyone.
I understand that the early years of your existence will present numerous challenges, but I will do my best to support you. Your peers may tease you for your speech, mannerisms, or even your singing. It might be difficult for you to handle such teasing when you are little, but don't let it affect you. I do not want you to hide these experiences from me. I want you to open up to me as a confidant. I have ears ready to listen. I will share with you a tale once upon a time, about a young woman who was born into a situation that appeared to threaten her mother's life. Miraculously, both of them made it through this ordeal, much to the surprise of many.
You will encounter educators who are strict and highly disciplined. They expect the best from you. It is important to excel in your studies and always follow their instructions. If you are facing bullying, remember to seek help from someone you trust and share your experiences with them. Experiencing your first monthly period might feel unusual but also bring joy. The initial excitement of mine turned into a mix of happiness and discomfort as the menstrual cramps gradually increased. You will not be alone in dealing with this.
You will notice changes in your body. Physical transformations might surprise you, but they will become more enjoyable over time. Men will start to notice you and shower you with compliments. I want you to understand that while they might seem to like you at that moment, it is crucial to avoid any actions that could lead to regret. Oh, yes. It will be easy because you will be thinking like a teenager, feeling like you own the world. You will be curious about many things but should never be alone with a boy. It is wise to have a friend nearby in case the boy tries to touch you inappropriately. Avoid discussing topics that make you uncomfortable, especially those related to sex. Trust your instincts; you have the power to say no and to wait. If you are unsure, talk to me before making any regrettable decisions. If you do give in to pressure, don't feel ashamed or unworthy. The heart is not always wise, but I'm here for you. You are my daughter, and I love you deeply. We all make mistakes, but as long as there is forgiveness, I'll embrace you and show you that you are valued and loved. We'll find ways to overcome these challenges as you grow and learn to think more critically. Most guys will only see your body and not your true worth. You'll learn to recognize the difference.
NB: I penned this in March, believing it was the end of the line for me. Life had dealt me a massive setback, one I believed I would never bounce back from. This afternoon, despite feeling down, I still found the energy to put this down on paper.
