Hey,

You made it to 26! And while this seems to be already late, I remain proud of when you hit these yearly milestones, especially that I know this is the first birthday you’ve had where you actually feel like you’re getting old (for real). You feel as if life’s simply accelerating away from you and yet you’re not even close to figuring out everything.

But hey, you are moving forward…

You got over the small talks because you learned that the rest are just making small talks, weirding it out over awkward questions that arise when you realize not everyone truly cares. And your face is tired of frowning vaguely while reading all that you can find out about when you’re feeling stuck—all giving you the advice to chase your dreams, follow your heart, be kind to yourself… ignore all advice.

Somehow you still have the same question to ask, “Don’t I need to think that what I do is worth something?”

You see, you’ve grown wiser and your heart is bigger than ever. There’s so much progress that came from where you went wrong and also from where you went right. I’m talking about everything you’ve earned over and all that you’ve been wanting to do, and you’re doing amazing on that front.

Given some of the year’s lessons will take longer than others, most you’re certainly still struggling with now, but you realize it’s all right here to get you on the right track. You’re actively looking for your purpose, but you do your best not to be anything negative because you realize you’re blessed to have what others are dying to have, and you can accomplish things that others unfortunately can’t. You’ve only got so much time on this little planet, so you try to get the most out of every day despite the lows. You continue to believe that your call has something to do with bettering the world, constantly moving, but wanting to be a resource in promoting progress for a good cause, a good purpose, and I admire you for that.

I see you freeing raw emotions and leading with your vulnerabilities and honesty. I see you bouncing back from rejections because you’ve learned how to be resilient and that’s exactly who you are.

Judging by how you have so far experienced life, it won’t come close, and you just keep learning more. Keep allowing yourself to explore more. Keep rising because you are an incredible woman. You are loved. You are enough. I love you and I’m so freaking proud of the woman you are becoming. You are golden.

Love,

Nom xx