Happy International Day of the Girl Child!
I wanted to take this opportunity on this day to write to you. Reflecting on our journey, I wanted to share some important lessons and reassurances with you. You are a girl, and in this society, that means you will face challenges. But I want you to know that you are strong, capable, and worthy of all the good things in life.
We will struggle with our self-confidence and esteem for a little while. Our darker complexion and skinny frame will make us feel inadequate. However, I want you to know that the world has since become more accepting and appreciative of diverse beauty. Today, I stand proud as a confident and beautiful young African woman. So, don’t worry, little Achom.
You may not believe it, but you now can speak in front of crowds, including men, as a leader. Did you know that you make decisions, and people seek your thoughts and opinions? It’s incredible how far you’ve come. I understand that life is presenting you with numerous challenges right now, and you may feel insecure, overwhelmed, and lost. However, I want you to remember that everything will be alright. You possess a strength beyond what you can imagine, and you have the potential to achieve anything and everything you set your mind to. Your emotional intelligence is an invaluable asset.
Do not fear failure, for it is a natural part of life. We have experienced our fair share of setbacks, poor decisions, and rejections. However, those failures have only made us stronger. Today, I can confidently say that we are fulfilling our dream job, and yes, the financial rewards are satisfying. Please also remember not to compare yourself to others. Each person is on their unique journey, and your path is just as valid and meaningful. Recall how we reached milestones later than others? It may be slow, but we steadily make progress. Trust the process, baby girl.
Always believe in yourself, even when others doubt your capabilities. Do not hesitate to seek help when needed. There are people who genuinely care about your well-being and want to see you succeed. Reach out to them, and together, you will conquer any obstacle. I know without a doubt that you will achieve great things in life. Have faith in yourself and never give up on your dreams. Emotionally, we have found peace and stability. We have learned to handle finances responsibly. And guess what? We are engaged to an amazing man – yes, you might have met him already. We are successfully navigating adulthood, paying rent, bills, school fees, going to see doctors independently, driving our own car, and have already visited three countries, for work and leisure. Along the way, we will naturally lose some childhood friends and outgrow others. We will experience the loss of very close family members, but we will learn how to be strong and navigate the complexities of grief.
You will develop a love for writing. It’s funny how our tastes have evolved, including a newfound liking for avocado, pizza, and cheese. I know, it’s hard to believe. But through it all, our kindness remains, perhaps even stronger than before. And we love and trust God more.
I know that you have the potential to be a great leader. You are intelligent, compassionate, and courageous. You have a voice, and you should use it to speak up for yourself and for others.
On this International Day of the Girl Child, I encourage you to invest in your own leadership. Read books about leadership, take leadership courses, and surround yourself with people who support you and your goals.
I believe in you, Achom. You can do anything you set your mind to.
Love, Your future self
P.S. I’m so proud of the woman you’ve become. You’re kind, compassionate, intelligent, and strong. You’re an inspiration to me.