Let me tell you what you are.

In today's world, the pressure to be on track silently creeps up your spine and takes residence on your shoulders. Sometimes it feels like the weight of the world rests upon them. And on top of the daily to-do's and responsibilities- your mind tends to remind you of what you're not. Focusing on the deficits, instead of what makes you magic. And you are- magic.

So as the sunshine plays peek-a-boo with the rain clouds, I want to remind you of what you are.

You, my darling, are capable. Capable of positively impacting this world. Of running marathons and eating cake. Capable of being true to who you've always been. Of overcoming the fear of judgment and living unapologetically. Because in your heart, you know you will never again offer anything or anyone the power to compromise your authenticity.

You are strong. Strong enough to endure heartbreak and loss and love. Tough enough to lead your life with a tender heart, while exuding grace and patience. Brave enough to choose to live. To get up every morning and start a new day, with new challenges and set-backs. Always welcoming these obstacles, as each time your character is crumbled... you see the opportunity to make crumb cake. Because you always appreciate the taste of life, knowing some recipes just don't work. And that's okay.

You are beauty. Every atom of your being is part of a scientific network that fuels your cells. These cells, carefully engineered by a greater force, unite to make you human. Your very existence is a blessing. You have a brain and a heart. While they may not always agree, you have the freedom to think. And the freedom to feel. That. is. beauty. Freedom. You have a voice that cannot be strangled by oppression, because you are faithful to your beliefs. You stand for what is right. And you stand up to what is wrong. You are beautiful all the way to your soul.

My goodness, how do you not see it? How do you not understand that you are the light. The light that guides others home to safety. My greatest wish is that you will appreciate yourself the way you appreciate others...without hesitation.

Because you are a map, made up of thousands of lines and markings. And sometimes none of them make sense from the outside looking in. But when you take the time to follow the lines and markings- it will lead you to the hidden treasure. It will lead you to, you. You are the hidden treasure. Stop hiding.

Share your gold with the world. Because you are- gold. Worth more than self-doubt. And no matter how many times those tiny little voices try to convince you otherwise, may you always know that you are everything that's good in this world.

You are doing a good job. You are doing your best. And we are all better, because you were born.

So, stop telling yourself- you aren't. And start reminding yourself- you are.

In a world that can be hateful and unforgiving... you are hope. We need you.

Sending all my love,

xoxo- Kelsie