Letter to my daughter: Things I want to teach her

Dear A,

Despite my best attempts, I cannot keep time still. There is nothing more I want than asking time to slow down a little so you and I can enjoy your childhood a little more. You, darling child, have started asking some mind-boggling questions: Like why are there no girls in your football class? what happens to people when they leave this world? Why your best friend (who is a boy) not interested in ballet? I love these questions and these are just somethings I want you to learn, in no particular order.

1. You can like dolls. You can like spiderman. And both are fine.
2. There is nothing like a boy colour and girl colour. Colours are fun, enjoy them.
3. People will eventually forget who you are but never how you made them feel. Make their memories unforgettable (in a nice way).
4. Kick ass and don’t be a kiss ass.
5. Rebel (but try not to do it against me) ;).
6. Laugh, breathe and let go.
7. Learn to deal with failures.
8. Failures don’t make you but neither does success.
9. Comparisons will steal your joy.
10. Some girls will have sugar daddies. Don’t be that girl. Work hard and carve your own path.
11. Despite what they say, feminism is not a bad word.
12. Do silly things.
13. Travel.
14. Run, dance, lift weights. Move your body,  Love your body. It is the only vessel you have. 
15. Love food. Don’t make it your enemy.
16. Have friends from all walks of life.
17. Speaking of friends; always remember quality over quantity.
18. Sunscreen and some kohl. And of course red lipstick.
19. Looks do fade. Character doesn’t.
20. Love unconditionally. Love deeply. And Love yourself.
21. Be strong, be gentle and be brave.
22. Be your own cheerleader.
23. Don’t dumb yourself down for anyone.
24. Be Kind. Always.
25. Be proud but not arrogant.
26. Use your voice.
27. You matter.

28. If someone tells you that you can’t do something because you’re a girl, do it anyway, and do it better.

29. Learn to say no.
30. Love does conquer all.

With love, always

Your mum.