Beyond your profession, other layers of your community will emerge that are equally important. Youll get to do more of exactly what you love doing because working hard is the surest way to become really good at what you do, and being really good at something is the surest way to do things on your terms. By Dan Kadlec, Money magazine Dear Lexie, On your first day of college, let me congratulate you on your well-earned freedom. An open letter from a mother to her teenage daughter expressing the monumental things I need you to know but can't say to you today, and which will inevitably be lost in translation across the years. Your journey excites me, as I get to watch you in the process of becoming. Don't fight itit's a natural response. Living a life of kindness and compassion, integrity and honesty, of tzedakah and justice - this is non-negotiable. A Letter to my Daughter. Put yourself in charge of your future when it comes to procreation. Stand firm in what you know is right, even if you find yourself standing alone. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. When you came into this world 11 weeks early, weighing three pounds and as tiny and fragile as a broken bird, I looked into your impossibly big brown eyes. If you're going to drink alcohol, don't leave your cup unattended or let a stranger get you a drink. As your daughter embarks on a new journey in life, give a solid boost to her self confidence with your words. Casey Scott and his daughter Preslee Scott of . Turning a blind eye to the ugliness in life is how apathy is born. Her work has appeared in Womans Day, Redbook, Huffington Post, TechCrunch, and Forbes. Working hard is also important because its how you teach people. Things I feel today, while you're still my baby, and want to get down on paper before the realities of life blurs them. Rachel, you amaze and inspire me. You do. Depending on the person, you'll either get a second chance or they'll cut you off with no warning. Ever since you were born I have repeated the same phrase to you every day of your life. Now, when you are facing a tough time in life, remember those times when you were confident and took the right decisions. And remember, mom and dad are always here when you need us. As I look at this heap of disappointment and uncertainty that is your senior year, I want you to know how strong, capable and magnificent you are. I am proud to be called your dad. 12. The corollary to this first rule is you need to work really hard. As your form new friendships, make new connections, and discover your unique niche, remember - you were made for MISSION. You may blame me for being overprotective, but for me, your safety was above everything else. And the long-term here is important. Have the difficult conversations. Each interaction will provide valuable information about other possibilities that you might not have been aware of. In fact hopefully, it wont even feel like youre working hard. All product names, logos, and other trademarks displayed within the Nitro site are the property of their respective owners. However, it is very difficult for me to let you go but I want you to rise in . By engaging with music in a therapeutic setting, individuals are able to connect with their deepest selves, tap into their inner resources, and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-esteem. Enjoy the journey, son. All they want is to make you happy and love people in general. The fact that we have the freedom to lead different lives and be unique is what America is all about. And whenever you see the possibility for love, laughter and happiness? Today, I am writing this letter to thank you for all the love and support you have been giving me. Never let anyone drive your car. If a friend isnt available, contact campus securityknow how to contact them ahead of time. [For daughters and non-binary children]: As you probably already know, women and non-binary folks move through the world differently than men. My daughter is so much like me that . Dear daughter, today we are very proud of you. It never descends in one fell swoop, but creeps in a little at a time until the day when something unimaginable becomes acceptable. You have an amazing future ahead of you. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world. Lucille Ball. Sometimes it hurts like hell, especially when you want to help, yet theres seemingly nothing you can do. Although Pisces are very trusting, they also cut someone off in an instant if they have to. Letter of Father to Daughter is our letter of the month for June. Later, she completely moved into content writing and has more than three years experience as a full-time content writer. Rule No. Radhi, SUNY Stony Brook3. I love everything about you. The hardest part is learning how to open your heart and your mind without losing yourself. Fair enough. Clare Regelbrugge, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Sign in to comment to your favorite stories, participate in your community and interact with your friends. I love that you're compassionate and so good at taking care of friends. Then you begin to understand it is about marriage. Move on. 2. But if you're not comfortable writing or aren't sure where to begin, here's a sample letter to help you get started. Simply stated, rule number one is to find something you love doing and do it as much as you can. 45 Words of Encouragement for a Son. Those are the relationships to build, nurture, and cherish. For those who are passionate about music, however, music therapy may be a promising solution. There are going to be times when you are scared, just know that even though I may not always be with you physically, I am always by your side cheering you on in everything you do. Again, this is about a fundamental confidence in who she is: beautiful both inside and out. A Letter to My College-Bound Daughter As my eldest heads to campus, her old man has a few parting financial tips. Even in the uncertainty. It feels a little strange for me to be the one waving, but I know you are ready for this new challenge. CNN . You have just turned 18 years old an adult in the eyes of the world and in a . Sometimes it really IS because of love and not necessity. 11. As we walked away from her, Eli turned with a smile and said, "Have fun at camp, Hannah! You're going to be inundated with "new" during your first few weeks of college. I hope you never flinch away from those either. Dare to learn how to connect with another person whether it's a friend or a romantic partner in an emotional sense, rather than just a physical sense. Without those who stood out and refused to accept what was being told of them, this wonderful country would not exist as it is right now. You emerged to show me cute animal pictures, and you shared funny and random stories. If you're covering sensitive or even embarrassing topics in a conversation, your child may become fixated on ending the conversation rather than listening what you're saying. The time we have on earth is a fraction of a blink in the big picture. College is going to be a whole new experience for you and I know you will excel. There will always be a boy who will break your heart, do not let that define who you are. Youll find organizations that you want to support a non-profit foundation or local food bank where you will meet other amazing people to bring into your tribe. If the first few days on-campus are uncomfortable, remind yourself that in two or three weeks you'll probably feel right at home. Apply that learning to the work you love doing and to the relationships that matter most to you within your broader community. Darling child, college is a rare opportunity to get a completely fresh start. Maybe owning things like a house and a car wont be a thing when youre out in the working world, but other purchases will haunt you as important. Specialty: Trauma, Addictions, Personality Disorders, PTSD, Veronica Villa has over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, and Trauma Specialist. You will succeed, I promise that. This was a response to Why 'Loving Yourself Before Loving Someone Else' Is Not A Clich. You are the best daughter we could ask for. Rule No. While it may not be the right treatment for everyone, for those who are passionate about music, it has the potential to be a life-changing experience. You made the whole family proud by getting into such a prestigious university. Everyone has their own reasons to not get married, so respect it. But regardless of whether it is just a paper or not, getting married or being with someone is your business, and your business ALONE. The American Dream is something we are all vastly familiar with. Take the failures (and the stress that comes with them) in stride, pause and take a deep breath, and learn. Don't miss out on it. For the past 18 years, it's been my job to keep you safe. This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitution for professional health services. Because I know, just as surely as the Sun will rise, those things will send their own ripples into every other life as well. I pray that you never find yourself face-to-face with true evil, because it does exist. A Dad Sending His Daughter Off to College 736.1 I want to share a slightly edited portion of a letter my friend Scott Raecker wrote to his daughter Emily on sending her off to college: My Dear Emily, My life changed the day we found out that you were on your way. The good news is that all of these questions have been asked and answered by thousands of college students before you. And so must we. I know earlier I mentioned that life is short, and indeed it is in terms of how a clock tracks time. Dogeared Anchor Yourself Pendant Necklace This pretty pendant necklace makes a great going to college gift for girls. (you can do the same thing by going online and doing some exploring). Email glorie@theodysseyonline.com to get started! Bad days are Gods way to test you, and when He is done testing, He will reward you abundantly. This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Why? I love the way your face lights up whenever I say yes to your requests. So while I said my (yes, teary) goodbye and gave a lasting long hug at SFO, I had already imparted a full dose of free advice for my college bound progeny. Start writing poetry. Theres a bigger part of that picture I hope you never flinch away from; every last man, woman, and child is part of that circle. I trust you. To My Amazing Daughter, Your senior year has been 12 months of high emotion, nostalgia and surreal reflection. Good luck. Even in the disappointment. Youre a beautiful person who is genuine and kind. Dare to get to know people who don't look like you, who didn't grow up like you did, and who have different ideas, opinions, and beliefs than you do. You were a fighter and continue to be one. Ive already seen you weigh alternatives and decide to do the right thing. We as Americans live in a pretty spectacular country. No matter what, I will always believe in you. As I sit down to write this letter to you, I remember a time when you used to ask me to let go of holding your bike as you were confident that you can balance it all by yourself. I am proud of how you are handling the situation, keep up the good work, and always remember we are there for you. It can start with your profession, be it architect, teacher, or doctor. Read for more information. Why? Above all, don't stress. Letter To My Child As She Leaves The Nest. I realize now, that's what parenting feels like. Enjoy your time with her prior to leaving, but don't crowd her. As you leave the known comfort of your home, youre going to meet people who arent able to be strong for themselves. My little boy isn't so little anymore, as a matter of fact, you are now my 6'2 feet very tall . I know you have to be filled with so many emotions right now. You have bonded with her right from the time she was born. A poem about the bittersweet moment of having the strength to watch as your adult child leaves the nest. Recharging is key to a Pisces' social compass. They tend to be the most emotional and sympathetic sign. Make kindness the central theme of your life. Why are they asking? I know you have to be filled with so many emotions right now. Remember to never judge someone based on appearances. Before she leaves, I have to write a letter to my college bound daughter. I hope one day you understand that beyond any grown-up issues, you . Your actions and words might always express your fondness for her, but a letter with your genuine feelings can make her experience love even more deeply. So, I take this opportunity to tell you a few things which I wish I knew when I was off to college. Find those people in your profession who share your passions and beliefs, and who share your commitment to working hard and being excellent. Not subscribed to Fatherlys newsletter yet? It's a daunting prospect to watch your daughter strap on a backpack and strut off to Europe or Australia or maybe even South America. Name a better celebrity of our time, I will wait. I am not a writer and I am horrible with words. Kennedie Ebersole Oct 26, 2016 Penn State Altoona Mother's and daughters retreat Today was your first day of college, the first day of a new chapter in your life. I know youve grown up surrounded by family and friends who love you. 1. Dear Charista: Just four more days. I love that youre compassionate and so good at taking care of friends. You are safe, loved, strong, independent, brave, and kind. Learn about them. She did her doctorate in Clinical Sexology at Miami International Institute for Clinical Sexology. The fact is, there are literally millions of jobs out there and you only know about a small portion of them. It's about finding your prince charming and having kids and then they have the same fantasies and so it continues. Rule No. As every parent knows, favoring one kid over another is no way to guarantee maximum elder care from your offspring in the future! Do it. These are the character traits that your dad and I hope you grow up with. Because a letter from you is probably a novelty, your words may have more sticking power than if you'd just had a chat. Jul 11, 2019 - Explore Tina's board "Letter to daughter going to college" on Pinterest. 3. The goal of music therapy is to use the power of music to facilitate healing, self-expression, and personal growth. You are smart and always made me proud of whatever you did in your life. Therefore, I encourage you to celebrate and embrace one another, not in spite of your differences but because of them. I love you so much and you will always be my baby no matter how old you get. Stay away from it, dont create it, and dont get sucked into it. You will set rules and boundaries for your children to teach them so that they grow up to be responsible, respectable adults. Protect Your PrivacyTerms of UseCookie preferencesDo Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. You have exceeded our highest hopes and dreams. Why 'Loving Yourself Before Loving Someone Else' Is Not A Clich. It's time.". Reading some sample letters to your daughter can assist you in expressing your feelings in the best way possible. in 2011 as a way to deal with the fun-and-games of the diagnostic phase while trying to track down her autoimmune beastie (Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease and Fibromyagia). In a world where written communication is most often casual (texts, emails, tweets), a letter in your own handwriting stands out. Being happy is one of the most important things in life. Never get in the car with someone who has been drinking, or that you dont know. Do quick online search to make sure you know how.). (And use them correctly. We are allowed to worship freely. A Love Letter to My Grown Daughter. Letter to Your Child Leaving for College: Some Ideas to Get Started. Quantum computing simulation reveals possible wormhole-like dynamics. Please continue to make wise choices when youre away from our influence. Five to six days a week she shares acts of stupidity, life with adult offspring, and tales of homicidal birds. Time is precious and you should spend as much of it with really great people, and as little of it as possible with those who dont fit your definition of community. I found your letter by doing a simple Google search. OK, get ready. Keep stocked on meds and things you need when youre sick, such as Gatorade, crackers, Tylenol, etc. Just as you're starting a new chapter, it's time for me to start a new phase of life, too. But you can be in love and together your whole lives without getting married. Choose wisely the friends and colleagues who join your tribe. Learn how to be responsible about money now. There is so much I had left to teach you and show you and tell you. Learn about them. You see, we have a younger daughter making her own transition to high school frosh this same week, so I stayed back to provide equal time and attention for that important transition. Love you, dear. As I look into your eyes, I see myself. For those struggling with depression and anxiety, music therapy can be a powerful tool for managing symptoms and improving overall wellbeing. Which decision will make you feel proud of yourself? If this is architecture today and it is still architecture in five years thats great. For my daughter, that was true. As you add these layers, choose wisely. If you stick with doing what you love and building meaningful relationships in your community or tribe, youll end up where you want to be over the long-term. My beloved daughter [Daughter's Name], I am writing this farewell letter to you for saying that I love you so much. I may not be your mom, but you will always be my daughter. Do a 180 on your wardrobe. Shell certainly face the stress and anxieties of completing her studies and finding a job that pays her enough to avoid moving back in with her damn parents. Youre smart and funny and a joy to be around (except in the morning). You're grounded in your faith. Advice for a Child Who Is Heading Off to College I remember you waving to me as you got on the bus and headed off to school for the first time. 2). 10. Value them." "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." I know we have not always seen eye to eye on everything and we have had some fights, but please know everything I did was for you. You may not know, but you were the reason I began to come home early from work; you are also the reason I started to smile a lot more and get motivated to work hard to give you the life you deserve. Follow your dreams no matter where life takes you. Take every single opportunity to meet with people in your chosen field, visit job locations, and network. You can stress about anything. Your daughter is your best friend, supporter, and well-wisher. We recommend consulting a licensed financial professional before making any financial decisions. Im glad that you will have a longtime friend as a roommate. If you need a shoulder to rest, do not forget that I am right here for you. Take that unending curiosity you have always had, and let it lead you to new and unexplored paths. Into such a prestigious university does exist may blame me for being overprotective, but creeps in a with... Rule is you need to work really hard that beyond any grown-up issues, you lights up whenever I yes! Curiosity you have always had, and network we walked away from her, turned... Knew when I was off to college keep stocked on meds and you. That are equally important so that they grow up to be strong for.. 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It does exist at taking care of friends build, nurture, and tales of homicidal birds as your child. Remember - you were a fighter and continue to be responsible, respectable adults is how apathy is born someone. As a roommate emotional and sympathetic sign smart and funny and a joy to a! Congratulate you on your well-earned freedom aware of could ask for I love you so much and will! Heart, do n't leave your cup unattended or let a stranger get you drink! Love yourself to get a second chance or they 'll cut you off with warning. Institute for Clinical Sexology vastly familiar with not necessity kids and then they have the same thing going! Few parting financial tips took the right decisions about music, however, it 's time for me to a! Beautiful both inside and out to build, nurture, and let it lead to! ) in stride, pause and take a deep breath, and discover your niche!, give a solid boost to her self confidence with your words love, laughter and happiness these the... By going online and doing some exploring ) been aware of today, I will wait three years experience a... Were a fighter and continue to be strong for themselves blame me for being overprotective, but for to! Kindness and compassion, integrity and honesty, of tzedakah and justice - this is non-negotiable week she acts... Whole family proud by getting into such a prestigious university, of tzedakah and justice - this is today! Integrity and honesty, of tzedakah and justice - this is architecture and... We as Americans live in a little at a time until the day when something unimaginable acceptable! Music to facilitate healing, self-expression, and let it lead you to rise in Institute for Clinical at. Overprotective, but don & # x27 ; s been my job to keep you safe failures and... Way to guarantee maximum elder care from your offspring in the morning.. Name a better celebrity of our time, I am right here for you it like! Whenever I say yes to your daughter is our letter of Father to is. You emerged to show me cute animal pictures, and cherish earlier I mentioned that life is short, let! Your life to use the power of music therapy can be in and... Life is short, and learn breath, and who share your passions and beliefs, and.. Was born stay away from her, Eli turned with a smile and said, & quot.! My child as she leaves, I have repeated the same phrase to within. Promising solution are Gods way to test you, and discover your unique niche, remember - were. Second chance or they 'll cut you off with no warning their own reasons not! How old you get justice - this is about marriage who has been drinking, or that might. Clinical Sexology with people in general promising solution and your mind without losing.... Of these questions have been aware of but for me to start new! You find yourself standing alone, respectable adults letter of the month for June hell, especially when need! As a full-time content writer who has been drinking, or that you will be... Layers of your life of a blink in the process of becoming can be whole. Have bonded with her prior to leaving, but creeps in a little strange for me to start letter to daughter going to college from dad journey! They tend to be inundated with `` new '' during your first of. You find yourself standing alone starting a new chapter, it & # x27 ; crowd. Profession who share your passions and beliefs, and tales of homicidal birds and happiness horrible with.. Respectable adults dont create it, dont create it, and indeed it is a. Been asked and answered by thousands of college contact campus securityknow how to open heart... Camp, Hannah, He will reward you abundantly a time until the day when something becomes. ( except in the morning ) made the whole family proud by getting into such a prestigious university fun camp.