My Dearest Daughter,

I hope you find the will in your heart to forgive me.  I never meant to hurt you; I only wished to push you to be your very best.  Your potential is astonishing.  I have always dreamed of giving you the life I never had, but in turn I brought you down.  You were never inferior to others; I only compared you to those who had succeeded because I have always known you could be even better.  I intended to inspire you.  As a mother, I can’t help but worry about your future.  All I ask is that you embrace your talents and intelligence, for this will take you far.  Take advantage of all opportunities that come your way, America is unlike any other place in the world.  All I ask is that you try.

As I have watched you grow and mature, I couldn’t be more proud.  I wish I would have spent more time telling you this rather than critiquing everything you ever put your mind to.  I thought my criticism would push you to be the best, but in reality it pushed you away from me.  I never meant to intentionally hurt you; instead, I hoped to instill discipline and responsibility that would lead your life in the right direction.  You had this all along, I was too blindsided with the fear of failure to notice.  I will never forgive myself for hurting you.

As you grow into a young woman and enter the world, I hope you follow your dreams and always put forth your best effort.  When you eventually have a family of your own, pass this down to your children.  Encourage them to always be their best-I hope you do the same.  I know you will go far if you push yourself to conquer the impossible.  No matter what your dreams may be, follow them, and stick to them.

Love,

Your Mother