Day 3 – Thankful for my daughter

Today is day 3 of 5 in my week of giving thanks.

Today I am thankful for my daughter, Makayla.

My daughter was born when I was 21 years old, I was just a kid. I was in college and did not have a real job, did not yet have a degree or training in any field. I had no idea how we were going to make it, I just knew I had to give you every ounce of love and energy to provide the best life for you. I did not have the slightest idea on how to be a mom or raise a child. But as life often is, you roll with what is given to you and do your best and have a thankful heart despite the challenges.

We could not have made it without my mom and dad, and a host of other wonderful loving people. My parents poured their lives into us, taking care of us, providing for us when we had no one else, supporting us, loving us and making sure we have always had what we needed.

You made our family complete. You were the addition we did not know we needed.

Because of you I have discovered a strength I did not know I had.

Because of you I have learned to fight.

Because of you I have seen the true beauty of life.

Because of you I have learned to push myself out of comfort zones.

Because of you I strive daily to be a better person.

Because of you I see the world with a different lens.

Because of you I have learned to pray.

Because of you I have hope in our future.

I have not always been perfect. I have failed many times and will continue to fail again. But despite my imperfections, I hope you know just how much you are loved, treasured and adored.

Over the past year I have watched you transform into a beautiful young lady and face many challenges and changes. I know it has not been easy, but you have persevered. The lessons you have had to learn in your short life will only help you as you continue to transform and grow into adulthood.

And while I would like for you to forever remain my baby girl, I know one day I will watch you spread your wings and fly. May you fly with confidence, knowing God’s grace and mercy abound. May you fly with hope, knowing this world is not your home. May you fly with love, because it is of His perfect love we are made to fly. And may you know our home will always be a nest you can return to when the winds may get rough and you need a shelter from the world.

I love you Makayla, and I am thankful for you!