And so, you’ve done it again, little Ms D.  You’ve turned a year older.  Happy 11th Birthday, my darling girl.  Welcome to tweenage-hood (a word I can’t stand, “tween”, as you know).

If there is one thing I have done right in my life, it is YOU.  I may have given you life, but I can hardly take credit for the human being you are evolving into.  As cliché as it may sound, I just don’t know where the years have gone.  My memory may be horrible but there are some things one never forgets.  Like the day you gave me the blessing to be your mother.  I remember you being placed next to me.  Highly drugged for the pain, I was all giggles and thrilled about the fact that you were a mini-me.

Every year has been an adventure with you.  Motherhood hasn’t been the only thing you have taught me.  You remind me daily of the person I need to be.  You may be numerically young, but your old soul teaches me constantly what life is all about and what it should be.  Unknown to you, being a child has not stopped you from being your Amma’s strength.  Your love, your smiles and your very existence have resuscitated me more times than you could ever imagine.  I hope you understand that one day.

While I know that this life is your journey to lead, I hope from the very best place in my heart that:

…….you will not just trod on the most popular paths, but travel the roads less travelled when you have a chance.

…….music will fill your life and take you through times, high or low.

……..you choose, every single time, to dance as if nobody is watching.

……..the wonder in your eyes for life will never dim.

……..you will remember that strength and beauty lie in that secret space in your heart.  No one, and I mean NO ONE, can give that to you or take it away from you.  It was there the day you were born and it will be there the day you die.  You just have to remember and remind yourself always.  ONLY you get to define who you are.

……..you will remember that kindness is crucial.  Kindness, not just to others, but to yourself too.

……..you learn that love is what matters most.  Never be afraid to love who you want to love, how you want to love or when you want to love.  You will always be worthy of love.  Love can never be wrong.

And most of all, always remember that even when your faith in God or yourself wavers, and it will, I will have enough faith in you to carry you through until you find your footing again.  No matter how far apart we are, Amma has your back.

Most importantly, remember that I am the very definition of coolness, even when I show up at your school unannounced with your birthday treats.  It is one of the privileges of being your mother.

I love you, my little one.