Mom,
I know that in your eyes I will always be your baby girl. I'll never be older than I was when the nurse handed you a pink blanket with a tiny person inside. I know that in your mind, I'll never be an adult or a woman that is capable of being out there on her own.
I know that when you look at me you see hands that you held as you taught me how to walk. You see the unruly head of hair that spent the first few months hidden under a hat. You see a pair of eyes that have looked up to you for a lifetime.
I understand that you worry about me. I understand that you still want to be part of every decision I make. I know that you're just trying to help me.
I need you to know that despite what you may see when you look at me, I'm no longer a little girl. I'm no longer that bundle that they handed you and told you to protect.
You raised me. I'm a strong, independent woman because of the way you raised me. Because of the lessons you've taught me, I am more than capable of holding my own in the real world.
I know why you're worried. You, more than anyone else, have seen me fall. You've seen me lose my mind and become way too emotionally attached to people I shouldn't have trusted.
You've seen me knocked down by the world. You've seen me defeated and you've seen me fail. You've seen me hit rock bottom.
But, you've also seen me get back up. You've seen me come back 10 times stronger. You've seen me succeed and reach goals I've set for myself. You've helped me do all of that.
I'm not asking you to let me go completely. I'd never ask that of you. You're my mom and I will always need you in my life.
I'm asking for a little space. I'm asking that you let me take a few steps on my own and stumble if I have to, to find my way. I'm asking that you trust me.
I'm asking you to trust not only me, but yourself as well. Trust the way you raised me. Trust the morals that you've embedded in me.
You've taught me everything I know. You've made me into the woman I am today. You did that and I hope every time you see me, you are proud of me and what you've made me.
I'm about to go out into the world on my own and while it is absolutely terrifying, I know without a doubt that I'll be okay. I know this because you've taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to. You have given me the strength to do this on my own.
You've done so much for me and I will never be able to thank you enough. I love and appreciate you more than words could ever begin to explain. You will always be my mom and I will always be your little girl.
But it's time mom...
You've got to let me stretch the wings you've given me, and fly.
Love you always and forever,
Your Baby Girl
