I had an experience with my oldest daughter today that reminded me that even though she is a mere 9 years old she is growing up. I am not ready for her to go out into the world without me always by her side to help, to guide, and to protect. The experience today reminded me that I must acknowledge and begin to accept the fact that my daughter will grow into a young woman whether I'm ready or not.

The time has come when I must trust that all I've been teaching her and all I will teach her will continue to influence her decisions sans my physical presence at any given moment while she is away from me. As I pondered our experience today and all it meant for us, I began to think of all the things I want my daughter to embrace in her life.

Be true to yourself. You are a wonderful, beautiful, intelligent girl who will grow into a wonderful, beautiful, intelligent woman. Be the person you want to be, not what others say you should be.

Follow your spiritual path and live it in your daily life. It will help you to find true joy and help you to endure the rough times in your life.

Keep learning. There is more to learn than anyone has a lifetime to live. Keep reading, keep educating yourself, keep using what you learn.

Always be honest... with yourself and with others. Trust is vital in any relationship, especially love and friendship.

Never, ever allow anyone to abuse you in any way. Ever. Do not think it will never happen again. If it happened once, it will happen again. Walk away and never look back.

Remember always that your parents love you beyond measure. They would lay down their lives for you.

Set attainable goals. When you achieve them, set more. Keep making progress at whatever you choose to do with your life.

Help others along the way. What we give out eventually comes to back to us, and it is often through service to others that we can forget our own problems, if even for a moment. Service builds self-esteem and helps foster empathy for and an awareness of the needs of others.

In a mate, settle for nothing less than someone who will love you for who you are and brings out the best in you. Someone who will treat you with honor and respect, someone who will cherish you.

Manage your money wisely. Save for a rainy day, prepare for the future. Avoid unnecessary debt at all costs. Know the difference between wants and needs.

Live your life always so that when you look in the mirror, you can be proud of the person you are right now.