I just realized something – Kenzi is 3 1/2 years old. In May she’ll be 4! She’s so observant, it’s one of the things I absolutely love about her. However with that observation and now age she’s starting to see some of the not-so-great things about this world we live in.
I nearly died on multiple occasions and that has put so much into perspective… there is so much about life that I want Kenzi (and my future children) to know and learn from me. I want them to be instilled with a sense of strength, confidence and passion. I want them to shoot for the stars, but still remain grounded and stay humble.
If there is one thing I know for sure it’s that this world is tough… things will happen in their lives that will shake them to their core. However, I want them to know that in life, they can overcome any challenge through Christ.
I can’t teach these overnight. Lessons are taught daily. Through observation and activity. Through real life teaching situations, observation, bedtime conversations, through imaginative play and real life scenarios.
This is an open letter to them.
1. Above all else, place Christ first.
Your inner and outer beauty is not defined by worldly standards. Others may try to make you feel not smart enough, not pretty enough and like you must be more – that you are ‘less than’. I want you to always know that your worth is found in Christ – that he values you far more than anything. You are uniquely and wonderfully beautiful.
2. When you fall, get back up again.
You will fall. You’ll fail and you’ll make mistakes. When this happens look at it as a way to learn. Allow the tough times and your failure to teach you. Learn from your mistakes and focus on growth – not perfection. It’s great to be detail oriented and strive for greatness – but striving for perfection will drive you crazy and is impossible.
3. Get rid of your stinkin’ thinkin’
Some people are harsh. They won’t see your value and worth and that’s okay. You can’t control their words… but you can control what you think and the words you speak into your heart, mind and soul. Your words and thoughts have power… be mindful of them and choose them wisely.
4. Always find beauty.
During your darkest days I want you to still see the beauty in this life. The way the sunlight drips through the window in velvety strips. The laughter of a loved one as it bubbles forth. The way the tree branches bend and sway as the wind moves them. Never lose your wonder. Always be aware of these seemingly small moments every day and be thankful; gratitude goes a long way and is so powerful.
5. Don’t run based off of emotions.
It’s okay to feel ALL the feelings. You are, after all, your mother’s child. Please – don’t tuck those emotions away. Don’t bury them. Work through them. Word of caution though: don’t let your emotions define you – you are not your emotions. You have power over them.
6. Stand firm in the truth.
You have a strong and powerful voice. Speak up for those less fortunate than you. Become an advocate for something you are passionate about. Whatever your passion in life is, allow Christ to fill you up and always keep your eyes on him.
7. Discover what sets your heart on fire.
Find your passion in life, and strive to do it as often as you can. Don’t settle simply because others might say your goals are too lofty. Shoot for the stars, work hard and love others well.
8. Follow your gut.
If something doesn’t feel right – it probably isn’t. Don’t do it. (Skydiving DEFINITELY falls into this category!) 🙂
9. Understand the power of prayer.
You are infinitely loved by God. I fully know that I’m here because of the power of prayer. You come from a lineage of strong prayer warriors. I would sometimes wake at 5am to find my maw-maw, your great maw-maw, on her knees in prayer. I would go to sleep seeing her kneeling by her bed, or leaning over her bible soaking in the scriptures. There is power in prayer.
10. Dream of big beautiful things, then go out and do them!
I say this to you every single night before you go to bed and I mean it! Step outside of your comfort zone. When you take a leap sometimes you fall – but you will eventually soar.
xoxo, Callie
