Dear Cessna
Dear Cessna,
Sometimes, grown-ups have feelings that can be hard to explain, even to those we love the most. Tonight, while we were playing, you said something that made me feel sad, even though I know you didn't mean it badly. You said I wasn't fun and wasn't pretty.
Hearing those words, even from you, made me feel bad about myself. I know it might sound silly because you're only six, but your words can sometimes hurt more than you realize.
When I responded with, "yes, you’re right. I am ugly," it wasn't because I truly believe it. It's just sometimes, when we're hurt, we say things we don't mean. I could see you disagreed strongly, and you talked about seeing beauty in reflections and how it's what's inside that counts. You're wise beyond your years.
But, my love, there are times when even on the inside, I struggle. I wish I could tell you that everything is always okay, but tonight, I'm battling some tough feelings. It's hard for me to feel good about myself when it seems like life keeps throwing challenges my way. Those mean voices in my head are especially loud, telling me all sorts of bad things, including that I'm ugly. It's hard to feel good when they're yelling so loud. It feels like everything is getting on top of me, and I don't know how to make it better.
I want you to know that even though I don't always feel good about myself, I'm always trying my best. And I promise to keep trying, because you deserve to have a happy and strong person by your side. It's just that grown-ups have their own struggles too.
Thank you for being patient with me and for reminding me of the beauty in life, both inside and out. You are my sunshine, and your love means the world to me.
With all my love,
Mommy