These words are sent out into the world with love and compassion. I dedicate them to my wife and daughters.

You are good enough, strong enough and beautiful enough. That doesn’t mean you can’t be tired, scared and vulnerable too. Those feelings are all a part of us.

Don’t selectively obscure or shade your multi-faceted brilliance or your darkness, just to make yourself palatable to the world. Celebrate who you are. You are loved exactly for who you are, even if that may change at any given moment.

You are allowed to change your mind, have moments of doubt, flounder, or feel afraid. Those are things we’re made to feel. Don’t use those feelings as proof that you haven’t lived up to a standard of normality or perfection that is impossible.

Treasure yourself and nurture yourself. It’s not selfish to take the rest you need, to replenish the soul force that motivates you and which you give so readily to others. You deserve your care too.

When you feel most afraid, reach out. Maybe I’ll be afraid too, but we can hold on together. I’ve been there in those small hours of the night when dreams turn to nightmares and joy turns to pain. Whatever you may feel, just remember this – you are not alone.

You are loved, treasured and valued for what you bring to this world with you. I’m so glad we chose to travel through this life together.

I am so proud of you.

I love you.

Jane