Dear Daughter,
It’s almost time for your high school journey. How did we get here so quickly? It feels like just yesterday you were walking into kindergarten with pigtails, and now you’re stepping into a brand-new chapter filled with endless possibilities.
As you begin this next adventure, there are a few things I want you to carry with you.
High school takes heart.
These years will ask you to show up for yourself, even when it feels uncomfortable or scary. It takes courage to raise your hand in class, to share your opinions, and to stand firm in your values. This is the time to practice. Even if you don’t get it right the first time, every effort will make you stronger and prepare you for the future.
High school takes balance.
It’s a dance between trying new things—maybe a club, a sport, or an elective you never considered—and staying true to who you are. Stretch yourself. Discover what excites you. Let go of what doesn’t. No one else gets to decide what’s “cool.” That’s up to you.
High school takes guts and grace.
You’ll meet new people, form new friendships, and sometimes drift from old ones. Misunderstandings will happen—you’ll misread someone, or they’ll misread you. When they do, lead with empathy. Say you’re sorry. Forgive generously. You are all learning, and it takes courage and grace to grow. Be open to friendships with all kinds of people. Some may not become lifelong besties, but every connection has something to teach you. I still cherish the music I learned from the skater kids, the laughs I had with the newspaper crew, and the courage it took to talk with classmates who intimidated me with their brilliance or confidence.
High school takes humor and perspective.
There will be awkward moments: fashion choices you’ll laugh at later, inside jokes that fall flat, and days when everything feels overwhelming. Keep your sense of humor close. One day, these moments will weave into the tapestry of stories you’ll treasure (and probably chuckle at yourself a bit).
High school takes ambition.
Grades, activities, learning to drive, and planning for the future do matter, but never at the cost of your well-being. Rest, joy, kindness, and balance are incredibly valuable.
Remember: You are much more than your transcript. You are kind. You are empathetic. You are curious. High school is a launchpad and not the final destination. Your heart, your spirit, and your truth will guide you far beyond the classroom.
Fly high, darling girl. You are more than ready.
Love you to the moon and back, times infinity.
xox,
Mom
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