Hey You,
I saw this challenge on social media to write a love letter to myself and I thought, no problem! But as I sit down to write this love letter, I feel anxious, vulnerable and intimidated. Which when I think about it is pretty weird. Because you and I don’t keep secrets from each other. You already know everything there is to know about me. The real me.
I think some of my anxiety is because I know this letter needs to begin with an apology to you. I’ve been such a horrible mean girl to you for so very long. I’m absolutely mortified about the things I’ve said to you. Hurtful, hateful things I would never say to anyone else. And I don’t even know how to begin to make amends for all the shitty things I’ve thought about your body, your capabilities, your value. How can I possibly begin to take back almost 50 years of self-loathing?
I guess with a simple apology.
I’m sorry. I’m so fucking sorry for all the times I told you you weren’t good enough, smart enough, skinny enough, strong enough, pretty enough. I’m sorry I didn’t see how perfectly beautiful all your imperfections were. And how these imperfections are the very things that make you the unique and beautiful person that you are.
I’m sorry I let you down so many times by giving up before I really gave it a try. For letting fear get in the way and letting it stop us and keep us small. From taking that chance, living our dreams, stepping into the unknown and really truly living an expansive life. And I promise that ends now.
From now on, I promise you to always be brave, courageous and determined. To look fear in the eyes and decide to do it anyway. To push myself, and more importantly, to believe. Believe in myself. Believe in you. And believe that together, we can do anything.
And I’m also going to stop being so hard on you and instead be grateful for everything you are. Because the truth is you are incredible!
You are beautiful. Even with all your wrinkles and extra pounds. The next time I tell you differently, please tell me to shut the F#ck up!
You have a smile that lights up a room and the ability to make everyone feel special.
You bring sparkle, love, fun and a little magic everywhere you go.
You are an incredible partner and mother – the best ever, really!
You are a good friend and confident.
You deserve all of the love, abundance and joy that the universe has to offer. You deserve a life full of laughter and magic. To wake up each day feeling proud of who you are and all that you have accomplished. And to know that no matter what, I’ve always got your back.
It’s not always going to be easy. Life will throw us a curve ball or two. But I will stop being so hard on you. Know that it’s ok to have bad days. To cry sometimes. And it’s definitely ok to set boundaries, because your needs matter too.
And in return for you prioritizing yourself, I promise to always be kind and gentle with you. I promise to accept you, every little bit. I promise to speak to you with care and kindness, because you deserve nothing less. And to listen more, really listen, even to your whispers. I promise to prioritize your health and help you get strong.
Together let’s live each day with more laughter, dancing, and unbridled joy and love.
One last thing I want you to remember … You are good enough. Smart enough. Strong enough. Pretty enough.
You are Enough.
I Love You Forever and Always,
Michelle
