10 things a daughter needs to hear (from her Dad)

She’s two. This won’t last long. There is so much that she needs to know- that my daughter needs to hear – so much that I need to tell her. She’s growing up so fast. I’ve watched it happen with her brothers (her oldest brother will be 9 this summer and I can’t believe how quickly it passed).

I hope to spend time with her, just talking to her. Fishing, walking, talking about cars and ballerinas… but mostly, I hope to teach her these lessons… these 10 things.

I can still remember when she was a two-year-old riding on her big brother’s scooter…

They grow up so fast…

Here are 10 things I hope she always knows… the things that a daughter needs to hear (from her Dad)

– You are loved. I will always tell you that “I love you,” “you are beautiful,” and “you are perfect the way God made you.” Don’t let anyone ever tell you different or make you think differently.

– One day you will find a boy who wants to take you out on a date. Remember that a gentleman should always come to the door to pick you up. He should expect to talk to your parents before you go out, to make sure we approve. If he sits outside in his car and blows the horn, I will have a talk with him. There is also a pretty good chance that if he does that, you will not be going out with him until he learns otherwise.

– Work hard in everything that you do. Don’t give up on yourself if something seems hard, just work harder. I’ve seen you overcome many obstacles and I know that you have the drive to make things happen. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you can’t do something. You are YOU.

– Be responsible and be home on time. Yes, I will go out and look for you if you are not home by your set curfew. Prove that you are responsible by being home a few minutes early… save your dad some worry.

– Be strong and respect others. Don’t settle for less in return. At the same time, be compassionate and forgiving. Don’t settle for less in return.

– I want you to know that it is ok to cry. I’m always here to lend you a shoulder to cry on (you have your mom & three big brothers, too. Your family is here to support you.)

– I will teach you about cars, sports, tools, and everything else that I do with your brothers. I want you to know that girls can do anything boys can do!

– One day you will move away and start your own life. Yes, it will break our hearts to watch you go, but we will be so proud of you. We will always be here to talk and to listen to you… near or far.

– I will always be an example of how a husband should treat his wife: I will treat your mother with love and respect. I will let you and your brothers know that she is my best friend, because you will be watching me and you will learn (from me) how your husband should treat you.

– You can do anything. You are strong. You are smart. You have a place in this world, and in our hearts, that no one else can fill.