For my daughter on International Women’s Day

“Here’s to strong women.

May we know them.

May we be them.

May we raise them.”

My darling girl,

When you look out at the world, know that you can and will achieve great things.

You are strong, sensitive and sassy. You are caring, confident, clever and creative. You are brave and beautiful.

Always be kind and know that the fiercest women are the ones who build each other up; not those who knock each other down.

Surround yourself with people who make you feel good about yourself, and make sure you do the same to them.

Remember those who came before you and sacrificed so much so that you can have the rights you do today. Do all that you can to keep on fighting for the battles yet to be won. Remember that sometimes you have to use your voice to stand up for those who cannot, for whatever reason, use theirs.

Don’t let anybody tell you can’t. Especially don’t let anybody tell you can’t because you’re a girl.

Embrace pink, if you want to. But remember pink isn’t your only choice. If you want the blue one, choose the blue one. And be proud.

Be a hairdresser or an engineer. Be a pilot or a nurse. Be a scientist or a teacher. Be a stay-at-home mum. Work hard and be what you want to be. And we will be proud.

Seek to be the best version of you that you can but know that you are enough just as you are. Be proud of who you are.

Remember this not just on International Women’s Day; but every day.

With love,

Mummy xx