Baby Girl,

Find your sexuality--before it finds you. It's there. I know what we're taught, but don't be afraid of it. God gave it to you. Your body is truly a wonder. Don't wait until you're 29-30 and experiencing your second "awakening" to realize that. Take as many pictures as you can. You won't have this body forever.

I don't want you to "wait until you're married", I want you to wait, like my mother taught me, until you find someone who you're truly in love with and you don't need to be convinced to do it. No matter when it happens.

Do not feel ashamed.

Your sexuality is your own. Not mine, your father's (whoever that may be), aunts, uncles, cousins...it's YOURS. Have the confidence to stand in your truth in front of your family,

be who I could never.