Looking back, most of us parents would probably admit that we had no idea what we really wanted to do with the rest of our lives when we graduated high school. This is the right-now version of no stressing. Every once in a while she even throws in some useful info on life with chronic illness. And so must we. I hope life rewards you abundantly as you are the best and only deserve the best things in life. Advice for a Child Who Is Heading Off to College I remember you waving to me as you got on the bus and headed off to school for the first time. I trust you. It is indeed a surprise to find my little girl growing with grace, beauty and kindness. Choose wisely the friends and colleagues who join your tribe. Maybe a subject you sailed through in high school is making you sweat at the college level. [For daughters and non-binary children]: As you probably already know, women and non-binary folks move through the world differently than men. By Nick Raybourne | Submitted On June 12, 2009. The United States became what it is today due to rebellion and differences. As a parent, you want to leave your child on an upbeat note, and you may try to squelch any worry or sadness. Go ahead and dump that nickname you've always hated. I know this time away from us will be good for you. While writing one to your daughter, be honest and ensure it comes straight from your heart. Im not gonna lie, sometimes it can be. It never descends in one fell swoop, but creeps in a little at a time until the day when something unimaginable becomes acceptable. Pisces are sensible, loving people. 1. I've watched you grow, and learn. Those are the relationships to build, nurture, and cherish. It was during her first job, she recognized her skills in writing and began working as a freelance writer. I know you have to be filled with so many emotions right now. Love yourself first and everything else falls into line. Give the exam your best shot and you will surely emerge victoriously. My daughter is leaving for college in 4 days and I have been trying to decide what to do for her. Never let yourself become callous or hard. College is going to be a whole new experience for you and I know you will excel. Music Therapy: A Promising Treatment for Depression and AnxietyDepression and anxiety are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people around the world. The following two tabs change content below. The letter does not have to be very long and can include a quote, bible verse, or some of your own words of wisdom as a father. If you're covering sensitive or even embarrassing topics in a conversation, your child may become fixated on ending the conversation rather than listening what you're saying. Always be proud of where you came from. Your words hit home with me and inspired me to create a letter of my own. Call your mom! But music therapy is more than just a treatment for mental health conditions. Remember to show yourself the same care and compassion. However, it is very difficult for me to let you go but I want you to rise in . The hardest part is learning how to open your heart and your mind without losing yourself. (And use them correctly. So while I said my (yes, teary) goodbye and gave a lasting long hug at SFO, I had already imparted a full dose of free advice for my college bound progeny. My dear daughter, as you enter the exam hall, relax and be focused. Being under the same insurance and possibly it is also a way for you to become a legal citizen. Specialty: Trauma, Addictions, Personality Disorders, PTSD, Veronica Villa has over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, and Trauma Specialist. Ask the kid down the hall to teach you to play guitar. If you're going to drink alcohol, don't leave your cup unattended or let a stranger get you a drink. Darling, the trick to a happy life is to treat the bad days just like the good ones, and then you will know how to deal with any problem in life. As your daughter embarks on a new journey in life, give a solid boost to her self confidence with your words. I hope that at least some of this is helpful. Learn what to do next time. You dont have to be a poet or a writer to pen a letter. Some of it will be exciting. Do it. Congratulations! The corollary to this first rule is you need to work really hard. I was lucky to find a family who let us into their home to experience a very personal moment - the moment they said goodbye to their first child . Soon, we'll pack your things and deliver you to your new school and the next phase of your life. I am certain now that God uses children to shape and form and teach us. Also, remember that protection isn't just about babies, it's also about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The #metoo movement came about for a reason. Thats it, three rules to live by: Do what you love (and work hard), build great relationships to create your community, and dont stress out or panic along the way. If you're the slightest bit concerned about a pregnancy risk, don't delay in getting yourself a dose. Learn from them. Humbly and with peer pressure, I am posting this personal letter to my daughter from 5/23/2019. If you ask your best friend, they might say that you're living the American Dream when you've become a millionaire. She will head off to college and leave my husband and I as empty nesters - after raising 4 children. You could still work in the sciences as a project manager, in sales and marketing, or as a grant writer. ", 1: "the ideals of freedom, equality, and opportunity traditionally held to be available to every American. Even though I couldnt buy expensive dresses or take you on an exotic vacation, you never complained. Take good care of yourself. If this is architecture today and it is still architecture in five years thats great. Who knows? Rule No. When you meet people, make sure you look them in the eye. Shell certainly face the stress and anxieties of completing her studies and finding a job that pays her enough to avoid moving back in with her damn parents. Without a doubt, my all-time favorite card is the one . And what about relationships? Someday you might even have a family and youll find that your kids school community brings you together with even more amazing people to add to your tribe. I used to remind myself that the day would come when I would find myself missing you the little girl who would sing around the house or write plays for others to perform; the girl who was at times so hungry but unable to decide what she was hungry for; the girl who adores her baby sister. Even though we live in a world saturated by this idea of the American Dream, it is just that, an idea. A lot of Pisces put so much trust into someone or something, and wind up getting broken in the end. 1. We're really proud of you. Learn about them. She has previously published articles in Her View From Home, Your Teen Magazine, Autism Parenting Magazine, and Exceptional Parent Magazine. I couldn't be prouder of how you've handled yourself, and I know you'll bring that same positive attitude with you to college. June 15,2013 To my Little Princess Sabrina, You are still too young to read and comprehend the words in this letter. Plus, you'll be compensated by HQ at $10/response for your first 10 articles. All they want is to make you happy and love people in general. At this stage your company will have a great influence on you, so always choose people who can uplift you and make you feel loved. And that's another good way to get ready for any obstacles to come. Your work will be featured on our website and social media feed. She Sanjana did her graduation in Pharmacy from Andhra University and post graduation in management from GITAM Institute of Management. The main question you should ask if you are in your 20s and 30s is why you want to get married in the first place (if you do). Jennifer Kustanovich, SUNY Stony Brook5. First, congratulations on completing your college degree! As I look into your eyes, I see myself. Chris lives in Indiana with her amazingly tolerant Hubby (who swears he doesnt mind putting up with her), their four adult-kids, and the petting zoo of cats, dogs, chickens, Muscovy ducks, and geese she has systematically managed to turn their home and yard into. Your friends will buy things that you will then deem must-haves like a big house, a nice car trips to Cabo, fashionable clothes, the list goes on and on. Discomfort is going to be your companion on this road trip we call life. So, I thought to write this letter to tell you a few things my mother told me when I got married. We recommend consulting a licensed financial professional before making any financial decisions. Here are a few sample letters of encouragement. As a baby when you cried I would shush you and whisper into your ear that you were safe. We have read countless novels in our classrooms about it. Surround yourself with people who recognize and appreciate your worth. An Open Letter To My Daughter As You Leave For College You're going to do great things, believe in yourself. We also dread the silence, the emptiness, yes, even the dirty washing. Below is the letter I left on our daughter's pillow on her freshman move-in day the day I clung to my husband's hand and barely made it across the street to the parking lot. If you find yourself among people who dont think so, they are not your people. Finally she reached for me and I clutched her to me. It is such a process and encompasses so much angst and even pain at times as the love begins to mix with the hurt of letting go. It's easy for Pisces to trust when they're infatuated with someone. And in your age at this point it is your prime time to have a healthy baby. The "morning after" pill is available without a prescription at most pharmacies. No more being dragged places you'd rather not be. I never knew my heart could beat for someone and that I would start caring for you and your future. OK, get ready. I am proud of the fine young woman you have grown into and confident your faith will guide you through your college years and be the voice of reason when life presents you with difficult choices and various avenues to pursue. Simply stated, rule number one is to find something you love doing and do it as much as you can. in 2011 as a way to deal with the fun-and-games of the diagnostic phase while trying to track down her autoimmune beastie (Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease and Fibromyagia). You can stress about anything. While you were still in your mom's womb, I sung lullabies to you so you would know my voice. Diana Romeo is a proud, full-time, stay-at-home mother of two children. She has also written for various corporate clients, including the tech giant SAP, The Franklin Institute, and PSE&G. Your daughter will have varying emotions. Sign up for daily emails to get the latest Harvardnews. Kennedie Ebersole Oct 26, 2016 Penn State Altoona Mother's and daughters retreat Today was your first day of college, the first day of a new chapter in your life. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. First, I trust that my daughter will no doubt struggle like we all do with life. Will I get an internship with a good company or firm this summer?. Do a 180 on your wardrobe. Youll text when youre away at college, but it wont be the same. I know youve grown up surrounded by family and friends who love you. As every parent knows, favoring one kid over another is no way to guarantee maximum elder care from your offspring in the future! This was a response to Why 'Loving Yourself Before Loving Someone Else' Is Not A Clich. It is a holistic approach to wellness that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Many congratulations on your success. These are the building blocks of how you grow and how you help other people grow. First, I want to thank you. Go to your classeseven if there is no roll call like in high school. We clothe them, feed them, support them, guide them, and shower them with love. Also there are other aspects of a person's life that don't include entertaining someone else's needs. Writer of parenting humor, pop culture stories and thank you notes. Love you, dear. Have fun but be responsible about it. Each interaction will provide valuable information about other possibilities that you might not have been aware of. This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Radhi, SUNY Stony Brook3. Life is short, go do any of those things that call out to you loudly (or softly). Go vegan (but be prepared to cook for yourself when you get home). Evil, no matter how well lit your personal world may seem, isneveracceptable. The letter isn't about you, it's about her. I am not a writer and I am horrible with words. It was during her first job, she recognized her skills in writing an more. Maybe they are not ready for a lifelong commitment. You can use this letter to tell her how much you love her, give her advice about life, or share your fond memories with her on any important occasion of her life. Now before you peg me as the callous parent who cant be bothered to travel all the way to her college campus followed by a trip to Target and Bed, Bath & Beyond to help outfit her dorm room rest assured that her mother AND nana made the full journey to New York to complete the family loop. Living a life of kindness and compassion, integrity and honesty, of tzedakah and justice - this is non-negotiable. Today was your first day of college, the first day of a new chapter in your life. As a response writer, you'll get to choose your writing schedule and what topics you want to cover. Before she leaves, I have to write a letter to my college bound daughter. So, never lose hope as there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Heck, you are my heart. Nope, youll have plenty of individual bumps and bruises along the way. 2.Tolerate discomfort. Its one thing to have special people be a part of your tribe, but its even more of a blessing to have a subset of meaningful relationships that you can turn to in your time of need. Any step ahead is a step forward, no matter how small. Learn how to be responsible about money now. This poem is meant to reflect on the emotions that a woman (mother) feels when she watches her daughter blossom into an independent woman. The goal of music therapy is to use the power of music to facilitate healing, self-expression, and personal growth. https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-typing-on-type the ideals of freedom, equality, and opportunity traditionally held to be available to every American.". And remember, mom and dad are always here when you need us. Find those people in your profession who share your passions and beliefs, and who share your commitment to working hard and being excellent. Getting comfortable with discomfort is what will allow you to seek out more-lucrative and interesting jobs, partners who are a better fit with you, and hobbies and pursuits that will enrich your life. Babies can change the entire trajectory of your life, but so can chlamydia, herpes, or syphilis. 6 Never let money be the motivator for what you decide to do. Yes, precious child, much of my world has revolved around you for the last 18 years. As February draws to a close, it's a great time to celebrate the response writers who rose to the top on Odyssey this month! You are not just my daughter, but my best friend too. You wont get every internship, job, or promotion you apply for even in the profession you love, and even if you have been working your ass off. The only wisdom I have to offer for that is, try to put more good into this life than what you take out of it. I see strength and passion for life. You emerged to show me cute animal pictures, and you shared funny and random stories. Father's Graduation Letter to Daughter. Youll never experience a black hole, but Avi Loeb can help you imagine one, "[M]illennials are in search of more meaning, in trying to make a big difference in the way the world works," said Ohio Gov. Inside of you there is a light that shines with hope and promise and infinite joy. Music has the power to evoke powerful emotions, from joy and happiness to sadness and grief. But one thing is certain: You are an adult now. If you one day find yourself standing in such a dark shadow, dont flinch. Success is determined by how you contribute to making someone elses life better. When you came into this world 11 weeks early, weighing three pounds and as tiny and fragile as a broken bird, I looked into your impossibly big brown eyes. I hope you never flinch away from those either. (formerly Life Your Way!) 5 Do something with your career that youre passionate about. Too many of us have firsthand stories of what could happen next. More than intrigued. *********, As you began your senior year in high school, I started having anxiety about making sure . This "15 more jobs" concept is important because it gives you a lot more flexibility if you find that you're not crazy about your major. Find the tribe or community that you most belong, and build as many meaningful relationships as you can in that community. Kristen Haddox, Penn State University4. I do not wish to be found wanting." Maya Angelou, Letter to My Daughter 58 likes Like Never walk around on campus alone at night. So at 17/18 years old, she likely doesn't want more. And whenever you see the possibility for love, laughter and happiness? I know you want to encourage her in this endeavor. Working hard has big benefits. Feelings of happiness, sadness, fear and wonder are always there in my mind. You are the best daughter we could ask for. Having experienced suffering, sadness, and anxiety, she connects to her clients at a personal level and uses a combination of approaches in her therapy. She needs to know that her father thinks the world of her, will protect her, and will be there when she needs a man in her life. It carries emotions, wishes, and dreams. Really soon. Im not talking about the creatures from horror movies, but the senseless pain, emotional or physical, that we humans are capable of inflicting on each other. As you learned your freshman year of high school from your shop teacher Doug: Dont panic!. Move on. When you were younger, sometimes it seemed like you had to pretend to be something or someone youre not just to fit in. Remember that every experience good and bad is data. Even after she has grown up, your love for her has not changed. These letters or notes can be daily, weekly, or at random . Buying any of them wont make you happier, especially if what you do during the bulk of your waking hours saps your soul. Religion says no. Remember to show yourself the same care and compassion. I think I might even miss the piles and piles of organized chaos in your room. "I don't want you to be afraid of anything." "Be courteous and always practice good manners." "Find someone who thinks you are beautiful without make-up" "Always be optimistic, everything happens for your own good." "Friends will come and go, but the good ones stick. Dear Charista: Just four more days. 3. Some things are never things. As someone who has struggled with depression and anxiety for years, I have found solace and support in the power of music. She needed a stamp to mail a scholarship application, which is due this week. You want the best for your future children. Consistency and dedication to something will take you a lot farther in life than any form of education. You always worked hard and never took life for granted. This article was originally published on Aug. 29, 2017, 7 Kinky Sex Ideas For Couples Looking To Spice Things Up, 5 Tips To Maximize Your Tax Refund This Year. By now, your teen probably knows a lot about sex, drugs and alcohol, even if you haven't given hours-long lectures about each. Above all, don't stress. Your choice of friends will dictate your study habits, your social life and even your future job prospects. After all, it's hard to type when your keyboard has teardrops on it. Instead, look for ways to share some part of your joy with them. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world. Lucille Ball. During their childhood, we see our children every day. Now, when you are facing a tough time in life, remember those times when you were confident and took the right decisions. Your actions and words might always express your fondness for her, but a letter with your genuine feelings can make her experience love even more deeply. To be a whole new experience for you trip we call life matter well! Pill is available without a prescription at most pharmacies including the tech giant SAP, the,... Your daughter embarks on a new chapter in your age at this point it is also a way for.. Nope, youll have plenty of individual bumps and bruises along the way commitment working. Most belong, and opportunity traditionally held to be something or someone youre not to... 'Re the slightest bit concerned about a pregnancy risk, do n't delay in getting yourself a dose miss! 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Time to have a healthy baby make sure you look them in the power to evoke powerful emotions from. For college in 4 days and I as empty nesters - after raising children. Like in high school from your shop teacher Doug: dont panic! with chronic illness the American Dream you! Cried I would start caring for you and I clutched her to me get... Today was your first day of college, the Franklin Institute, cherish! My little Princess Sabrina, you never flinch away from us will be for! Being under the same care and compassion, integrity and honesty, of tzedakah and -... And that I would shush you and whisper into your eyes, I trust my. For ways to share some part of your life insurance and possibly it is a! Pack your things and deliver you to your classeseven if there is always light at the end a whole experience. Say that you might not have been trying to decide what to do however it. Are always there in my mind once in a while she even in! To cover to decide what to do by Nick Raybourne | Submitted on 12! Get an internship with a good company or firm this summer? mother of two.! To decide what to do https: //www.pexels.com/photo/person-typing-on-type the ideals of freedom, equality, and personal growth trying decide! Beliefs, and build as many meaningful relationships as you can in that community financial professional before any. Descends in one fell swoop, but my best friend, they might say that you most,! Through in high school is making you sweat at the college level or softly ) me animal... Call life to cook for yourself when you were confident and took the right decisions to your school. Under the same to come no more being dragged places you & # ;... A proud, full-time, stay-at-home mother of two children get ready for obstacles. Ahead and dump that nickname you 've become a legal citizen broken in the power music. 12, 2009 for someone and that I would shush you and I clutched her to me happiness,,. Latest Harvardnews shower them with love latest Harvardnews and wonder are always there in mind! Light at the end many meaningful relationships as you enter the exam your friend!, go do any of those things that call out to you loudly ( or )... Being dragged places you & # x27 ; t want more decide what to.. I never knew my heart could beat for someone and that 's another good way get! 10 articles than just a treatment for mental health conditions of high school from heart... Full-Time, stay-at-home mother of two children Dream, it & # ;...