Baby Bird,

I have loved you with every fiber of my being since the second I knew you existed. I want the world for you — but I don’t plan to give it to you.

I want you to be independent and self-sufficient, strong and not entitled. I want you to know the satisfaction of a job well-done, and I want you to have the tools to succeed as an adult.

I want you to make mistakes so you can gain confidence when you bounce back.

I want you to head into the world fearlessly. Never settle for less because you’re afraid of adversity, or complain about what you don’t have instead of hustling to get it.

I want you to be appreciative, and I’m not sure you can be if you’re given everything. I want you to value your power, and I’m not sure will if you never have to use it.

I’ll hold your hand and walk with you when the road gets rough. I’ll be you’re loudest cheerleader and greatest advocate. I’ll always fight for you, but I won’t hobble you by giving you everything.

You’re still young, but I can see your brilliance and I know you’ll do amazing things. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

I love you through and through.

Mama