Dear Giana,
Today is your 14th birthday. I am so proud of the woman you are becoming
but I will save that for a private message.
Three weeks ago, we had your first undergarment shopping
experience. You said, “Wow, Mom, being a
woman is expensive”.
To that I say, “yeah,
it sure is!”
A week later, you had your first serious leg shaving
incident.
To that I say, “It will not be
your last!”
One week ago, you attended the Women’s March on Washington
and made history.
To that I say, “I
officially welcome you to the Sisterhood.”
And now that you are part of the Sisterhood, I ask that you
understand a few things. Be a good friend: this means first and foremost to not be judgemental. It also means that you should always try to show-up
and to listen. It means gather an eclectic group of friends from all different
backgrounds who will teach you new things, who will be loyal to you, and who will always have your back. Make sure you always have their backs. Be
there for them when they ask. Be there for them when they don’t ask. Never give up your friends for a romantic
relationship. That’s it. The Sisterhood Code. Your "Sisters" will get you through some really hard times and be there with you for your most joyful. I promise you that.
I want you to know that I will never stop fighting for
you. That I will never stop fighting for
you to be able to walk down a dark street without fear. I will never stop fighting for you to be able
to have fun at a party and not be rape material. That you won’t have to walk on the other side
of the street. That you will have fair
pay for your work. That you will have
proper healthcare and a real paid maternity leave if you decide to have
children. And speaking of having
children, I will fight for you to own your own reproductive choices whatever
they may be.
I love you baby girl.
My smart, funny, kind, and, yes, beautiful daughter.
I will never stop
fighting for you. And all the girls!
Love,
Mommy