I know you’ve probably received many congratulations and gifts today, but I just had to add my own. Everyone around you, especially your loved ones, couldn’t be prouder of what you’ve achieved today, and neither could I. It’s still a bit surreal that you’ve officially earned your degree — something you set your sights on four years ago. After all the ups and downs, the tears, and countless sleepless nights, you did it!
In this special letter, I want to honor all the stories (re: the pain) you’ve experienced along the way..
Dear Yasmin,
On this day filled with laughter and warm embraces, life might feel like it’s changing faster than you imagined. But I hope you never lose sight of yourself amidst it all. The flowers you hold today, basking in the warmth of the sun, are signs of a bright future that will accompany your next journey.
It feels like just yesterday we were sharing our dreams. Now, you’re standing at the edge of a new chapter. Through every challenge, you’ve been nothing short of incredible. Your perseverance, strength, and unwavering determination have always inspired me. You’ve worked so hard to reach this point, and today is the celebration of everything you’ve accomplished. I always knew you were destined for greatness — now the world knows it too.
Maybe not many people know about the struggles you kept quiet and the pain you didn’t share. I hope you find healing from all the traumas that have held you back. If something ever makes you uneasy, may it turn into beautiful butterflies that flutter freely, without restraint. You have every right to be angry at what has hindered your growth, but I want you to know that those things don’t define you. Every emotion you felt was valid. You’ve always been wise beyond your years.
And if there are thoughts still buzzing messily in your head, may they slowly find peace and fade away, one by one. I hope you don’t see them as obstacles — they’ll just make the adventure of life even more thrilling. You are the only one who can create the world you dream of. Who are they, anyway, to tell you how you should live it?
As the past few months begin to slip away..
May the burdens you’ve carried also disappear, making space for the beautiful things that await you. It’s taken time, sacrifice, and patience to reach this point. Allow yourself to accept all the appreciation coming your way; use it as fuel for your next chapter. If anyone ever tells you that your dreams are too big, I hope it never stops you from chasing them. The possibility does exist, right?
I’ve watched you grow, push through challenges, and accomplish so much. You’ve been my companion through late-night chit-chats and deep conversations, encouraging each other when the finish line felt miles away. Now, as I reflect on this chapter, I want you to know that wherever life takes you, you’ve already done so incredibly well. There’s no way God brought you this far just to fail. You’ll get to where you belong — a place where you can be your truest, most authentic self. And whatever comes next, you’re going to conquer it. The world has no idea what’s in store!
Congratulations, my lil sissy— this is your moment, and I hope you’re soaking it all in!
With heartfelt appreciation,
Zee
