Dear Second Child,
Can I be honest? I was scared shitless when that second pink line showed up! Your older sister filled my entire world. How on Earth was I supposed to love anyone else when she took up all the space in my heart?
Then, on the day you were born, an amazing thing happened… Something I didn’t know was possible… My love grew. It did not divide, it multiplied. I never believed people when they told me it would, but it did.
Mom guilt never rests, though.
I sometimes feel guilty. Your sister had me all to herself, something you will never know. Don’t worry my dear, I promise I will make time for you to have my undivided attention- even if it is a lot less often and shorter in duration than I would like. I’ll do the best I can.
Even when you can’t have me all to yourself, remember you have the love of your big sister too. Your big sister can be a pain in the ass sometimes- always hugging you, kissing you, and showing you toys right against your eyeball so you can see them. You are her entire world as well. She will show you how to use those beautiful, big, brown eyes to wrap your Daddy around you finger. She will teach you how to crawl, run, jump, and climb. She will try and take over my job and parent you in ways that will drive us both insane.
I try not to compare the two of you, but I can’t help it sometimes. I put your monthly photos side by side, I measure your weight and length to see if you are your sister are similar. Despite my failings, I promise I WILL parent you differently than your sister because you are so unique and special. You are your own little person learning this world. I promise that I will try my hardest to give you the space to grow into who you are meant to be and not make you feel as though you have to live up to your older sister’s milestones.
My sweet second child,
Just because you came after your older sister doesn’t mean you come second.
Love,
Your Mama
By: Angelina Miller
