Sweet Sixteen !! 3 min read

 "Turning 16 on the 16th is extra special, so you better make it grand." That was the command I received a few weeks back. Relief being "grand" for my kids is more about the feel and vibe than what they receive. Though I hardly can imagine that the littlest one of our home is already a lady, that is reality.

And so,

My dear Stephanie,

Before you hit the road ahead, which soon you will, here are 16 for 16th on 16th!

#1. Treasure yourself for who you are in this world. Love and respect for yourself will teach you to do the same to others.

#2. Choose friends who make you happy. But most importantly, choose the ones who add value and meaning to the relationship.

#3. Though you have left the world of fairy tales long ago, never stop finding magic. Dream often and never be afraid to dream big dreams.

 #4. There is as much ahead of you as is within you, if not more. Believe in yourself and the possibilities of this beautiful world. Keep faith in fear and never stop believing in yourself.

#5. Everyone says sixteen is sweet, but why? Whatever you have been through till now has made you the person you are today. So, be thankful for the past and look ahead with confidence.

#6. Follow your intuition about people and situations. And yes, you heard me, trust in the still small voice always. God will always lead your decisions in the best direction as you go. The more you trust, the more you will find.

#7. Take chances as you move ahead in life. Discover the world; it will help you learn more about your surroundings and you.

#8. The key to happiness is gratitude. Be thankful for everything in life. No matter how small, appreciate and make full use of all your gifts and talents.

#9. Remember to care for your mind, body, and spirit every day. Some day soon you will become a young woman, be responsible for all you own. Your mind, body and soul.

#10. You will hear many opinions, and opinions are good. Know what to hear and what to pay heed to.

#11. Three things will take you far. Identifying where you want to be, discovering how to get there and knowing why you want to be there. When you understand the reason, your journey will be more fulfilling.

#12. Grow up, but don’t leave the little girl behind.

 #13 Challenge yourself and gain satisfaction in your successes. Search for comfort in contentment, owning every opportunity that comes your way.

#14 Things will not always go as planned but always rise from the lowest pit stronger and better. When you see the purpose in your failure, you will understand the journey.

#15. You will have many experiences each day with a new story to tell. Look for the lessons, search for skills to sharpen and pursue your passion. But above them, enjoy the ride.

#16. In everything you decide to do, remember what makes you smile. Time is precious. So choose wisely.

 

Love Mumma

Dated 16^th March 2022

The Google image is sourced from the internet and does not belong to me. Subject to copyright.

 

 

To "Little Women" with love!

My dear little (and not so little) women out there,

        As I wrap up for the day like any other workday, my thoughts rest on all the little girls I know. What does the 8th of March mean to you? Does it come and go each year and leave you feeling the same?

Here are some thoughts on self-care you may wish to choose.

1.      Happiness begins with you - until you are happy with who you are as a person, nothing and no one else can do it for you. Seek out your interests, goals and all you wish to achieve. Striving for them will let you understand yourself and make you happy. 

2.      Hobbies must resonate with you- a hobby that you can connect with and that makes you feel energized will serve you well. You don’t have to break the glass ceiling nor remain locked in a biased choice. Do what feels good and right.

3.      Know your worth -this applies to friendships, relationships, and jobs. Very often girls settle for less than they deserve. Difficult situations, insensitive relationships, even lower paychecks. Quote your price, you are worth it.

4.      Find a mentor -you need to have someone who will inspire and teach. Encourage, listen and validate your feelings. Need be, even reprimand you.

5.      Find your voice- girls are often raised to have perfect manners and be quiet. Thus we learn very early to take care of others first. Running the risk of becoming people pleasers. Knowing how to find your voice will also give you great communication skills. Make yourself heard; it will help you accomplish much.

6.      Nurture your passion – rather than being pushed into activities dare to choose what interest you. Pursue the idea and engage passionately. No matter how small or simple.

7.      The magic begins beyond our comfort zone – it is imperative to challenge yourself in taking healthy risks. Understand that if you are getting too comfortable it is time to move.

8.      Your needs are important- in a predominantly patriarchal world, girls often learn to put themselves on the back burner. The courage to be seen and heard is a powerful gift you give yourself.

9.      Let your word mean something-Jo, the inspiring writer, in Louisa Alcott’s Little Women says, “I like good strong words that mean something.” As we try to rise in a largely male world the words we choose have a huge impact on how we are perceived. Let us choose our words carefully and express them in the way we want to be understood.

In the end, I quote Louisa May Alcott in her Little Women, "I've got the key to my castle in the air, but whether I can unlock the door remains to be seen." Girls, the key is in your hand, fly high and unlock your castle, even the ones in the air.

(Images sourced from Google and are subject to copyright. I do not own them.)