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To My Daughter on Her 18th Birthday
Today I get to reflect on the miles you’ve traversed to get here; terrestrial and spiritual.
Some miles have been longer and more excruciating than others. At times you’ve been abandoned to walk alone, other legs you were surrounded by friends and family who love you. Supporters cheered from the sidelines, others threw rocks to deter you and block your way. I watched you take fellow travelers by the hand, offering comfort and encouragement while you covered some part of the journey together.
At times you wanted to give up; the valleys too deep, the mountains too high, the beasts hiding in the underbrush too threatening. But you didn’t. You carry the light of hope, placed deep within you the instant you came into being. It shines out of your sea green eyes and radiant face. It sparkles through your laugh. Your company of angels watch over you, whispering inspiration when you need it. You’ve learned this path is yours and any valley or mountain can be conquered one baby step at a time.
The road ahead is not clearly marked; you are the Lead Explorer of the uncharted territory that is your future. While a map can bring a sense of comfort, I believe “God made the world round so we would never be able to see too far down the road.”
