My dear little Emma, despite your brief six years on this beautiful planet, I feel the world’s forces trying to pull you away from me, attempting to snatch your childhood from our grasp. In response to this, I make these heartfelt promises to you:
- Embrace Your Body: I vow to inspire a love for your body in you. You will never hear me use the words “diet” or “fattening.” Complaints about my appearance will be absent from our conversations. Even when you point out the lines around my eyes, I’ll tell you they come from laughter. I’ll never allow you to criticize your body; your health is all that matters, and nothing else holds significance.
- Gender Will Not Limit You: I promise to never suggest that being a girl limits what you can achieve. I take pride in watching you play basketball, even when you’re the only girl on the team. Your determination to guard your opponent fiercely and sprint down the court fills my heart with joy. I will always nurture that fiery spirit within you.
- No Room for Meanness: You will never be allowed to be the mean girl. I refuse to accept that you would intentionally exclude or hurt someone else. The world can be harsh, especially for girls, and I will ensure you understand the importance of kindness and empathy, drawing from my own experiences.
- Shield from Misogynistic Media: I will protect you from the misogynistic messages in advertising for as long as I can. While I know I can’t shield you from everything forever, I will keep you away from magazines that promote unrealistic beauty standards. Your journey through life shouldn’t be marred by the media’s cruel messages about beauty, so I’ll armor you until you’re ready to face them.
- Live Loudly and Boldly: I promise to encourage you to express yourself loudly and clearly. Your voice matters, and I want you to share your thoughts and ideas without fear. Whether your ideas seem wild or outrageous, own them with confidence.
- Makeup is Optional: I will never instruct you to “put on a little lipstick.” I hope you’ll look in the mirror and see the beauty of your natural self. If you ever feel the need for makeup, it will not be due to my influence.
- Cherish Childhood Innocence: I promise to keep you a little girl for as long as possible. Remember when I scolded you for trying to dance inappropriately? I believe that too many girls grow up too quickly. You’ll only be young once, so take your time to play, dream, and let your imagination flourish.
- Listen Openly: I promise to listen to you with an open heart and mind. I want to hear your dreams, perspectives, and opinions on life. I cherish seeing the world through your eyes, and I’m excited for the lively debates we’ll have in the coming years.
- Unconditional Love: I will love you unconditionally, regardless of the teenage angst you may express. Even when you tell me you hate me, I’ll remember that you’re navigating the challenges of growing up. I might not stay silent during tough moments, but I promise to hug you close each night and forgive any transgressions.
- My Love is Infinite: If you haven’t already realized, I love you to the moon and back. I take my role as your mother seriously, which is why I’m putting these promises in writing for you to hold me accountable.
With all my love,
Mom
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Summary
In this heartfelt letter, a mother outlines ten promises to her daughter, emphasizing body positivity, gender equality, kindness, and the importance of childhood. She pledges to support her daughter’s individuality and childhood innocence while reinforcing her unconditional love.
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