Dear Student,

I notice your absence… it’s more often than I’d wish. And I do look forward to seeing you, because you matter.  I know how quick you are to down yourself, I see your insecurities, and I can only imagine your struggles. But I need you to know that you are your own worst critic. Because you are so smart! Smarter than you’ll ever give yourself credit for. I’m not just saying that because I’m your teacher; your classmates know it too. They miss you too.

My wish for you is to embrace your talents and know your worth. Don’t you know who you are?

You are more than the choices that you’ve made (or that are made for you),
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes (or others past mistakes),
You are more than the problems you create,
You’ve been remade.

My prayer for you is to find this belief and believe wholly, completely, fully. You are smart, talented, kind, beautiful… You are so much more than you give yourself credit for. I just wanted you to know that I notice you, in your presence and in your absence. I’m praying for you, sweet girl, and I’m always on your side.

-Mrs. R