An Open Letter to Myself on My Birthday

Today is my birthday!

In honor of another 365 days around the sun, I thought it appropriate to write myself an open letter. Just to reminisce about the past year and tell myself the things that need to be said but I rarely get to say.

So here’s what I’m telling myself today.

Dear Chinwe,

Let me start by telling you how incredibly proud I am of you. Surprised? I know I hardly ever tell you that you’ve done enough, no matter how hard you try. But girl, you are amazing! Over the last few years, I have watched you rewrite your story page after page. And looking back now, I can say you’ve come a long way from where you used to be.

I still recall how a couple of years ago, you cried your eyes out on your birthday because you felt like a failure. Like your life wasn’t going anywhere. You didn’t want anyone to wish you a happy birthday because to you, there was nothing “happy” about the day. It was a dark, dark place to be in. But through those tears, the fighter in you was determined to make something out of the mess.

Now, look who is excited about her birthday again. Hahaha.

This past year has been a blessing. You said yes to numerous new opportunities, embarked on some new journeys, and met some truly amazing people in the process. You walked through doors you wouldn’t have dared to knock on a few years ago. You got to reconnect with relatives you hadn’t spoken to in years and made some wonderful memories you will both cherish for a lifetime.

Chi, I am happy that you’re finally beginning to see your potential. For years, you had people tell you about how much potential they saw in you. But you never really saw it (silly you). You held yourself back for so long because you felt… Well, not good enough. Look at all the awesomeness the world would have missed if you didn’t let go of that silly thought, aye? Hahaha. This is just to say you are doing great and I can’t wait to see all that you’ll accomplish in the coming years.

One last thing, Chinwe. I do hope you always remember to hold your head up high, stay true to yourself no matter what, and never let the world rob you of that beautiful smile. And on days when you feel discouraged, look up to God because He is not done writing this beautiful story that is your life. He is still writing the best part of your story.

Happy birthday gorgeous! Wishing you the most amazing year yet.

Love,

Chinwe Chiamaka Uzegbu.