#25: Birthday Post: A Letter to Myself

Dear Pollyann,

I just want to let you know that I am immensely proud of you for the things you’ve done, the things you haven’t done, and the things you’re yet to do. You are an extraordinary woman, in your love for others, the sound of your laughter, and in the way you love your heavenly father, husband, children and friends. It is in the strength of your walk and in showing up (even when you don’t feel like it). You know how to get up, show up and not give up (even you when you’d rather curl up in a ball and cry). That is who you are.

Always remember when those negative thoughts creep in (like how unworthy, undeserving, imperfect you are) that you are loved by God. Nothing will ever change that, even when you mess up. He’s the one holding onto you, even when you are tired of this messy life. Rest and show yourself Grace.  

Up until the age of 23, your life was extremely difficult and painful.    You wanted to give up on life and end it; however, with God, hard work, and determination you prevailed!  I wish my younger self could see the woman you are now.  The best version of you is on her way, not behind you.  I wish she could see the children you have raised and the spouse that is madly in love with her husband.

You worry about becoming the person who has not reached her full potential during her lifetime, but that is worry that you need to let go of. Look at you, you have prevailed and continue to rise.  I know you’re worried about the future, but the best way to honor the gift of life is not looking forward or behind, but rather being in the moment and soaking it all in. Every season of your life, you are bearing fruit.  Your roots are digging deeper in life, making you unshakeable even when a new storm tries to take you out.

 I know this isn’t the life you imagined you would have.   In Fact, it is more than you could have ever imagined.  God has blessed you in ways you never thought were imaginable.  It doesn’t matter if your purpose doesn’t look like anyone else's--it is yours! No matter how imperfect your life is, it is yours to live. Remember this is the only life you will get, so live authentically.  Forgive yourself when you make mistakes and forgive others when they fail. We are all human. Your past should always be a place to take lessons and memories from, not one to return to by reminding yourself of pain or regrets.

Finally, every day you’re one step closer to becoming the woman God intended you to be. Stay rooted and unshaken.   Live an Authentic life with Integrity, Honor and Accountability.  Stay Present, stay Engaged!  Life is the Ultra Endurance Event! The best is yet to come! 

Happy Birthday, and I can't wait to see what the next year has in store for us. 
​
Love,
Pollyann