Dear Izzy,
Happy 14th Birthday. This year you will take your Seminar class and find your “Voice and Vision.” All the parents were asked to write a letter to their daughters by today…your birthday. Good timing, since I always write a letter for your birthday! I love you so much! You are my best girl!!!
I know that I am your mom, but I look up to you. I strive to be more like you. I have said it since you were a baby, “you are inherently you.” Even as a little girl, you knew who you were, what you wanted, and how to get it. As beautiful as you are on the outside, you are even more beautiful on the inside. I admire your drive, your determination, your ability to love others but also love yourself. The start of the teenage years haven’t been the easiest. You are not one to put up with drama, and I love that about you, but unfortunately drama is a key component of being a teenager. I know sometimes it is hard for you to “put yourself out there” and to trust your amazingness, but I am so proud of you for doing it, even if you get hurt in the process. You are able to stand up for yourself in a way that exudes strength and grace. Keep being true to yourself, because you shine a light into this world that is so very needed. And those that deserve to have your light brighten their days will find their way to you.
You have a strong moral compass of integrity, loyalty and excellence. Follow it all the days of your life, and you will always be headed in the right direction. Zachary would tell you that integrity is “doing the right thing even when no one is watching.” That isn’t to say you never are going to break a rule or make a mistake, but you know right from wrong and live your life in a way that shows integrity every single day. Your loyalty to your family is commendable. You are the glue that holds this family together. We all have a tremendous amount of respect for you, because you are the one who acts with kindness, reason and sometimes a bit of tough love. You strive for excellence in all that you do. You always give your best effort in the classroom, on the field, and in our home.
When I think about your “voice and vision,” I think about all of the art you have created over the years. The beautiful paintings, cards, and drawings that you have given as gifts to those you love, are true acts of love. The creativeness and thoughtfulness that has gone into each one is a testament of your love for each person. Your imagination and innovation are also demonstrated in your school work and projects. You put your best effort into everything that you create.
You may not realize it, but you are a leader. In school, you are a quiet leader. On the field, you are an exuberant leader. At home, you are a cheerleader. You are still learning and discovering who you are, but I already know you. I know what you are capable of achieving. Once you learn to see yourself through my eyes and the eyes of everyone who truly sees you, you will be unstoppable.
My dear sweet, wonderful girl. I can’t wait to sit back and watch and say, “I told you, Izzy. Mom IS always right!”
Love you most,
Mom
