My sweet ones,

You're growing so fast. It seems like yesterday you were learning to walk, and now you're becoming yourselves—unique and wonderful.

Some things I want you to know:

You are loved. Nothing you do can change that. Not bad grades, not mistakes, not bad days. The love we have for you is unconditional and eternal.

It's okay to be different. The world needs your particular kind of wonderful. Don't waste energy trying to fit in when you were born to stand out.

Be kind. Especially when it's hard. Especially to people who are different from you. Kindness is never wasted.

Read books. They'll take you places you've never been and teach you things you never knew you needed to learn.

Call your parents. Even when you're busy. Especially when you're busy. They worry.

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