I recently wrote a letter. This is a heavily edited version of that letter. It is my hope that many parents share the same sentiment toward their offspring. Not only recognizing the independent, individual human that they are, but giving them the space they need to learn from their own mistakes.

Sometimes, just knowing someone loves you so unconditionally is more than enough.. and often that is more than most people get.

Dear Child of Mine,

I understand that you’re probably feeling restless, and not just from lack of sleep.

You’re feeling restless about your situation, about the choices you do and don’t get to make. You’re restless about life.

I get it, because you and I are a lot alike. If I were in your exact situation at your age, I probably would’ve acted the same way and made similar choices.

But here’s the thing, I’m not your age anymore. When I was your age, I was dealing with my own set of challenges. However, if you had been handed the same circumstances I faced, you likely would’ve done many of the same things I did.

Now that I’m older, I’ve had the chance to reflect. I get to feel proud of the choices I made that helped me survive, grow, and become who I am today. I’ve also had time to recognize the choices that weren’t so great, and to see how a few different decisions might have made life even better.

Unfortunately, you don’t get the benefit of hindsight yet. You can’t always tell which choices are good and which ones might cause you problems later.

What you do have, though, is someone who not only loves you and wants to see you live your best life, but also truly understands you. You have someone who understands what you’re going through, and even understands why you’re making the choices you’re making.

That’s something I never had. And if I did, that person never made it clear enough for me to know I could turn to them for advice.

Your advantage is that you have someone who loves you, understands you, and is here for you. You have someone you can ask for guidance to help you find the best paths forward. Paths that can help you avoid the kind of mistakes that can weigh you down later.

Most importantly, you have someone who isn’t going to get angry when you make mistakes, or push you into a path that doesn’t feel right to you.

You have someone who’s simply here. Here and ready to listen, to offer honest advice, and to help you see things more clearly when life gets confusing.

I love you. You can talk to me anytime, about anything. You won’t be judged; not any more than I judge myself. My only wish is to see you succeed and find happiness in this game we call life.

I’m your biggest fan, and I’m always cheering for Team You.

Love,
Me- your parent