I know you know everything about life. I know you know the potential dangers of the Internet and Social Media. I know you know not to have a boyfriend or make out with boys. I know you know about personal hygiene. I know you know not to watch inappropriate movies and shows. I know you know not to do drugs or drink alcohol. I GET it, you already know. However, it is MY job to protect you. It is MY job to help you and I take MY job VERY seriously (lucky you!)  I will continue to remind you to make  good choices. I will check your phone.  I will ask who you are texting. I will filter Netflix. I will remind you to wash your face. I will repeat “don’t do drugs” even though now it is the family joke. I will remind you to always be a good friend. I will continue to tell you stories I hear about things that happen to teenage girls. I will be blunt. I will be honest. I will be detailed because it is MY job. I want to protect you. I want to spare you some of the embarrassment that comes from being a teen. I want to help you be the best version of yourself.  Every eye roll  and “I know” response just validates that  I’m doing MY job. My reminders, direction, rules, and advice is not because I want to annoy you but is ONLY being done because YOUR future, YOUR happiness is my number one priority. I know you would love for me to tell you that this will end when you’re an adult BUT…that would be a lie. You are stuck with me for eternity. You’re so lucky!  But I am the one who is blessed.

Love you forever,

Mom

Epilogue: This was written after a conversation I had with my daughter about “my job.” I felt it was worth putting in writing. Being a mother is the toughest job on Earth. Recently I have felt like I am just not doing enough.  There are so many things I want to teach my children, so many things I want to protect them from, so many things I want for their future. It is overwhelming! However,  I have to remind myself (sometimes daily) that by being present and involved, I am doing enough. There will always be room for improvement and some days will be better than others but I am here. I am with them, teaching them, leading them, and guiding them and giving them everything I’ve got.

Photo cred: My talented niece