To my daughters,
I see you. I see how you tackle challenges and struggles. At times, you persist, showing an inner determination. At other times, the struggle is too much, and you pause. I see you. I could jump in to rescue you when the math worksheet feels overwhelming or when there's girl drama or friend disputes. I see you. I love you. I love you so much that I want you to learn the lesson of the struggle.
Just like the caterpillar builds its chrysalis and emerges as a beautiful butterfly, you too face moments of transformation. But before the butterfly can fly, it must struggle. Similarly, in life, you will struggle.
You will need to struggle to build the skills, just as the butterfly struggles to strengthen its wings. If the butterfly is helped out of its chrysalis, it will never fly. Change is hard, but just like the butterfly, you too must choose to leave behind the old. Leaving behind the old, like shedding a chrysalis, can be challenging, but it leads to new adventures.
And just like the butterfly, you too will fly—spreading your wings into the unseen and unknown. But remember, you are seen. I see you.
As much as I love you, there is One who loves you more. He is the Creator, the One who knit you together and knows your struggles intimately. Psalm 139:13-14 reminds me of this truth: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." He knows these struggles that you will face. They will strengthen your character, and develop your own relationship with the One who sees you. You see, it is in the struggle, the leaving behind, and the spreading of your wings to lean into Him that your faith is built.
These struggles give you the courage to soar, trusting Him to lift you up.
Here are two more verses to hold onto:
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." - Isaiah 40:31
Now, here's my challenge for you—and myself and everyone who reads these words: Find the courage to soar, trusting in the One who sees you and knows you intimately. Let go of your burdens and fears, allowing Him to guide you on your adventure of flight.
I Love You!
Mom