Today is your eighteenth birthday, sweet Madelyn. You have transformed from a cute little red-headed princess into a beautiful young woman. When I think of words to describe you, I think of dreamy, demure, and delightful. You are a quiet one, your thoughts deep inside. But you light up a room like fireworks, though...you and that smile and those big blue-grey eyes.
Take the world in, sweet grandchild. Receive all the gifts it has in store for you and make your way, learning more and more your purpose as you go. My prayers for you have gone before you and just know that they will catch you if need be.
Be cautious with your heart. It is precious, so guard it. Be discerning about who you let in. Choose wisely. Guard your thoughts, as well. Think good thoughts about yourself but make changes when and where necessary.
Have goals and make plans to bring them to fruition. Learn something new everyday and pursue your dreams with all your focus and energy.
Have fun. Be silly. Laugh...laugh a lot! Be forever young. Always...
Give to others the things that money can't buy. Your time and attention, your kindness, words of encouragement, the truth in a gentle manner, a hug when they need it, and a token of some kind that holds meaning. It is in giving, that you will get your biggest blessings. Be generous. Be good to yourself, too.
Find God in the soft rain falling, in a kitten's purr, in smells of fresh baked cookies, in the quiet, and especially in the bad days and times...He's always there. Just listen. Read a devotional daily to learn about the depth of His love towards you. It will give you strength and peace.
You will find your true worth in His Word. Use His Word as a compass to navigate your steps. If you get off the right path, get back on quickly. Then shake "it" off. Don't allow the past to mire you down or define you. We are all imperfect. God understands.
Nana loves you, sweet girl!
About the Creator
Shirley Belk
Mother, Nana, Sister, Cousin, & Aunt who recently retired. RN (Nursing Instructor) who loves to write stories to heal herself and reflect on all the silver linings she has been blessed with :)
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By Imola Tótha day ago in Fiction
Comments (12)
Such wise words. ♥︎
What a beautiful gift to Madelyn from her Nana! Wise counsel… “ You will find your true worth in His Word” 💛.
a wonderful piece from a great writer
Awww, this was so wonderful! Happy Birthday Madelyn! 🎂✨️❤️
I hope Madelyn re-reads this gift from you to her many times as she gets older. Younger adults don't always recognize wisdom until they are much older but she will look back on this message one day and smile brightly.
Dear Sb ~ aka; Nana - My Mom, also referred to as 'Nana' the other side of the family was the 'Grammy' ~ wouldn't let a Red-Headed kid walk by without her pinching a cheek..! Thanks for the fun memory, Sweet Nana...! j-bud.in.the other LA..!
This is a beautifully written blessing for your granddaughter, Shirley!
Such gorgeous, sage advice! Beautiful job Shirley! Happy 18th Madelyn! ☺️🎊
And a great tribute to who must be a lovely young lady. Happy birthday Madelyn! And you have a lovely name!
Such a beautiful way to express your love for your granddaughter, Shirley! This is probably one of the best presents she will receive for her 18th birthday. If I had such a letter from my grandmother I would treasure it forever. Happy birthday to Shirley and to many many more!
That's a great tale! Such amazing writing! 👏✨👍
Love the image and full of good advice