I'm Sorry

Dear Sweet Baby Girl,

I'm sorry. I'm so so sorry. From the moment you were conceived, you had the odds stacked against  you. Not because of what potential you have, but because of the gender that was given to you before you were even born. I wish I could tell you that life will be easy, and fun and full of adventures. Don't get me wrong, your life will be filled with those, but your life will also host a number of challenges and barriers that you will have to overcome. It's unfortunate, but you'll have to learn to put your walls up long before someone shatters your trust. You'll find yourself overthinking every move you make because there are others out there who intentionally or unintentionally perceive you in the wrong way. You'll get lectures upon lectures telling you how to be safe, how to be strong, how to know the difference between love and abuse, how to know when it's okay to say no. Please baby girl, out of all the things we tell you, please listen when we tell  you to love yourself first. Please listen when we ask you to slow down and think about what you're getting yourself into. Please listen when we say we mean well and only want the best for you. If I could shelter you from this world, I would. But that would be a disservice to you. You are meant to do great in this world, even if you don't know it yet. Regardless of what you do in life, know this: you have a tribe of strong, successful and independent women rooting and cheering for you. We will be there every step of the way. We will discuss the heartbreaks and cheer for the successes. We will always be there for you.

Love,

Your Aunt