Dear Me, I look back at the woman I have been, and I see someone who carried the weight of the world quietly, often alone. I remember nights filled with doubt and tears held behind a brave face. I gave my heart freely, even when it felt like no one saw how much it cost me. Yet here I am, still standing, still loving. I want to honor that strength. There was a time when storms came without warning, when I walked through fire that threatened to consume me. Shadows tried to steal my light, and the world felt heavy on my shoulders. But I rose—again and again—because something inside me refused to break. I realize now that every scar I carry is proof of my courage. I’ve faced moments of being unseen, of having my kindness taken for granted. And still, I chose love. I refused to let the world harden me. My heart stayed open, and in doing so, I discovered my own power: the power to keep shining even when no one is looking. Now I celebrate the woman I have become. I am resilient. I am worthy. I am a firebird rising from the ashes of every trial I’ve faced. My light is mine alone, and it will always thrive. I no longer need anyone else to validate my strength—I see it, I feel it, and I own it. With love and pride, Lisa
