Dear Towanda, I am writing to you to encourage you and to let you know you are enough.

Right now you are a junior at Randallstown Senior High School wearing a coat indoors throughout the day because you do not want to be seen. Right now you are comparing yourself to the other girls who seem to be everything you think you should be. Right now you are concerned about being liked and accepted by classmates and peers. But the only acceptance you truly need comes from you. I want you to know the thoughts of inadequacy are unwarranted because you are enough.

Your full body frame covered in dark skin is beautiful because that is how God formed you. And I do not need to remind you that He does not make mistakes. I know you desire to be viewed as pretty and seen as the prize to your crush.  But your fears of rejection and ridicule drive you to get lost in the crowd in hopes to remain unseen. In spite of how you may feel at times, or even how others look at you, know – you are enough.

As you will see in years to come, everyone has insecurities. They may differ, but we all have them. Furthermore, everything is not always as it seems. The individuals you wish to emulate are struggling with their issues just like you.

Don’t worry about the fact that the boys aren’t chasing you down. Use this time to focus on school and learn all you can. Establish your goals and go after them. You will have plenty of time for dating and suitors. And by the way, don’t shed any tears on that guy who will make fun of you on the bus. You will see him again at age 22 and he is going to flirt with you. Additionally, it is okay that there are individuals who don’t find you attractive now. There will be plenty in your future who find every part of you attractive. Why? Because you are enough.

You are worthy of the best in life and don’t allow anything or anyone to convince you otherwise. Listen to your heart and follow your dreams. Know that you are special and you are to be treated as such.

More difficult times are going to come, but know everything you need to get through it already resides within you. You are strong, you are beautiful, and you are enough.

Love always,

Towanda

Until the next time, be you and most importantly – love you.

Being uniquely you is being uniquely beautiful.

-B.B.