My Valentine's Self Love Letter

Dear LaToya,

Happy Valentine's Day!! I'm writing to tell you how much I love and admire you. I know you do not hear it as often as you would like (or need too), but you are beautiful. Not only are you beautiful, but you are greatly valued and appreciated.

Recently, you've spent a lot of time and energy wanting to get "your old self back." You know that "perfect girl" image that you have been so desperately desiring. Well let's reflect back on her for just a minute. She was the ideal size (some would say). 5'1 about 130 pounds, wearing a size 4-6 and was able to go into any store, not having to be concerned if something would fit. Her hair and nails were always done. Skin was just flawless. She was in the prime of her career; quickly receiving promotion after promotion, and climbing up the corporate ladder. She was madly in love with her college beau. She lived life spontaneously and freely. She basked in so many accomplishments.

I loved her. I still love her. I will always love her, and as good as she sounds, truth be told she really wasn't that "perfect girl." She had flaws and imperfections just like everyone else.

You often say how much you miss her, but she hasn't really went anywhere. Yes somethings may have changed, but she's still very deep inside of you. Awaiting for your to unleash this "perfect girl" image and bask in your perfectly imperfect life.

That body frame, well it no longer may not fit those dimensions, but it is still beautiful. It helped carry two beautiful children. While there are stretch marks and a "mommy tummy" that you may not have had before, they are reminders of your pride and joy. Your hair and nails, rarely get professionally done anymore, but you're still working it girlfriend!!!! Even with skin blemishes you look at least five years younger than your age. Yes, there's been some roadblocks with your career, but you've recently just started a new one. The man you were madly in love with, still loves you.

So what life didn't' happen exactly as you wanted. Things happened according to God's plan. So lift your head up high. You have way to much going for yourself to be down and out. You are more than just a number on a scale. You are an educated, beautiful, strong, wife, mother and friend.

Somewhere right now, there is someone wishing they could have what you have. So from this day on, I encourage you not to long for wanting to get your "old self back", but love yourself. Be comfortable in the skin that you are in, and love yourself only like only you can. Because if you don't love you, no will love you.

Love always,

LaToya