avatarAmol Shrikhande

Summary

A father pens a letter to his daughter, encouraging her to write her own story and life path, independent of his guidance or societal expectations.

Abstract

In "A Letter to My Daughter," the author addresses his daughter with a message of empowerment and self-determination. He acknowledges the traditional role of a parent as a guide but questions this dynamic when he himself may not have all the answers. The father recognizes his daughter's unique ability to find her own path and encourages her to ignore preconceived notions of success, instead embracing her individual talents and perspectives. He emphasizes that her journey should not be confined by his or anyone else's experiences but should be as unique as she is. The letter concludes with the father's unconditional support for his daughter's choices, promising that his love will shine brightly no matter where her decisions take her.

Opinions

  • The author challenges the conventional expectation that parents should direct their children's lives.
  • He admits uncertainty and the absence of a clear path, suggesting that life's journey is not predetermined.
  • The father appreciates his daughter's independent spirit and her ability to look beyond conventional wisdom.
  • He believes that his daughter should not be limited by others' definitions of success or by her current talents and interests.
  • The author encourages his daughter to pursue her passions, whether they lead her to a stage, a lab, or any other endeavor.
  • He trusts that she will recognize the right path for herself and assures her that his love and support are unwavering.

A Letter to My Daughter

On writing her own story

Courtesy Duncan (Pixabay)

Dear Daughter,

They say I should be the guide

That’s how it’s always been

Your life — but my ride

Just follow, and I win

But what if I don’t know the way

Because the bread crumbs are long gone?

And what if I don’t play that game

So you go elsewhere for your baton?

I’ve noticed you know how to look

In places I’ve never seen

Your answers aren’t textbook

Your slate deserves to be clean

Don’t read the bottom line

As your talents that’ll restrict

You need the whole view, not mine

No stale monetary edict

You can be on a stage

In a lab or your design

No matter the age

Make your journey sublime

So which way will you go dear?

When it looks right you’ll know

And be it far or near

My heart will be aglow

Love,

Dad

Poetry
Poetry On Medium
Parenting
Love
Life
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