For My Daughter

Posted April 27, 2015 by Prairie Wife - 8 comments

Cowgirl G turned seven yesterday and as I snuggled with her in our bed and talked about the day she was born, and some of our favorite memories, I was struck with my hopes for her for the future.

I want her to take pride in her body. To always know the joy of its strength, beauty, and health. I want her to have the confidence to wear what she wants to wear, and to dye her hair blue and laugh about it later. I hope that she will always love the sweet smattering of freckles across her nose.

I want her to remain fearless. I am in awe of her complete confidence that if she wants to do something she can…it may take practice and work, but she has no doubt that in the end she will achieve whatever it is that she set out to do. I’m still working on this lesson myself…

I want her to continue to be compassionate and sensitive to others. Listening to her calmly comfort Cowboy C when his feelings have been hurt makes my heart grow every time. Her ability to listen to her friends and they way she tears up every time she watches Brave (even though she knows everything will be all right) will allow her to be a woman that will make the world a better place.

I want her to not be afraid to feel. I want her to know that it’s OK to laugh and shout for joy, to celebrate and giggle, even when it may not be the perfect time for someone else. To feel pride in her accomplishments, and to say “thank you” when someone gives her a compliment and not follow it with a “but…”. I want her to cry and be sad when she needs to. To feel no shame when she tears up at a movie with friends, or cries every time she hears the song Silent Night (that may be me not her). To know it’s OK to answer the question “How are you?” with “Not so great today, but I’ll be better tomorrow.” Instead of hiding behind a smile and a canned answer.

I want her to keep that perfect balance of caring and not caring. I want her to care about how her actions impact others, and know that how others see you does count…to a point. But, I want her to know when it’s time to stand up straight, stick that stubborn little chin out, and leave the rest of them in the dust.

For my daughter….
I want her to know love. The love of family and friends, the love of God…and love for herself.

Copyright: / 123RF Stock Photo

Categories: Life As It Happens

Tags: , birthday, Cowgirl G, daughter, motherhood, parenting