Daughter of the King is a project to share stories, wisdom, warnings, advice, and encouragement that young women and teen girls need to hear, but too often don’t. I’ve been gathering letters from women on the prompt: what would you say to younger you? I’d like to include some thoughts from men.
Why? Please read this excerpt from what one woman wrote:
“Times in my life when men said anything to me are memorable because it was so infrequent. Women and girls are wondering what men are thinking, and we’re so desperate to hear something supportive and positive from them! I remember times when I wanted intensely to hear something from the men in my life. Looking back, those were times when I was most wondering who I was. Maybe they sensed that, and it resulted in them looking at me with disapproval because I wore, said, or did things that were outside the range of what they expected from me. I would still remember it to this day if they had said ANYTHING to me. Instead, I remember their disapproving looks to which I wanted to say, “I wouldn’t do that again!” and have them believe that I was the best version of me. All the time that I spent wishing they would say something—anything—to me! I’m sure that it takes great courage for a man to say something to a girl, but if they only knew how incredibly impactful it can be, they would see that it’s worth it. As time goes on and girls grow into women, women learn that men only talk about safe subjects that make them look tough. They avoid anything complicated. Generally, they don’t even talk to women or girls because we aren’t worth their time…or at least that’s how it feels.”
What would you say to the young women in your life to encourage them? What things do you want them to know? Do you care about them? Do you want the best for them? What hope can you give them? Are you watching out for them or praying for them? Is the prospect of speaking to them intimidating? Think of your wife when she was young, before she knew you. What would you say to her?
Can you write a letter from your heart? It can be any length, but should be written without identifying information, as the authors will be anonymous. I intend to publish this non-profit with free versions available.
And I should mention, roughly half of the more than 30 women who have contributed letters so far are survivors of some form of abuse, which reflects statistics. The book addresses trauma and pain that far too many young women either will experience or already have. They need us to care.
Please let me know if you have any questions and if you would like to write.
Daughter of the King is a project to share stories, wisdom, warnings, advice, and encouragement that young women and teen girls need to hear, but too often don’t. I’ve been gathering letters from women on the prompt: what would you say to younger you? I’d like to include some thoughts from men.
Why? Please read this excerpt from what one woman wrote:
“Times in my life when men said anything to me are memorable because it was so infrequent. Women and girls are wondering what men are thinking, and we’re so desperate to hear something supportive and positive from them! I remember times when I wanted intensely to hear something from the men in my life. Looking back, those were times when I was most wondering who I was. Maybe they sensed that, and it resulted in them looking at me with disapproval because I wore, said, or did things that were outside the range of what they expected from me. I would still remember it to this day if they had said ANYTHING to me. Instead, I remember their disapproving looks to which I wanted to say, “I wouldn’t do that again!” and have them believe that I was the best version of me.
All the time that I spent wishing they would say something—anything—to me! I’m sure that it takes great courage for a man to say something to a girl, but if they only knew how incredibly impactful it can be, they would see that it’s worth it. As time goes on and girls grow into women, women learn that men only talk about safe subjects that make them look tough. They avoid anything complicated. Generally, they don’t even talk to women or girls because we aren’t worth their time…or at least that’s how it feels.”
What would you say to the young women in your life to encourage them? What things do you want them to know? Do you care about them? Do you want the best for them? What hope can you give them? Are you watching out for them or praying for them? Is the prospect of speaking to them intimidating? Think of your wife when she was young, before she knew you. What would you say to her?
Can you write a letter from your heart? It can be any length, but should be written without identifying information, as the authors will be anonymous. I intend to publish this non-profit with free versions available.
And I should mention, roughly half of the more than 30 women who have contributed letters so far are survivors of some form of abuse, which reflects statistics. The book addresses trauma and pain that far too many young women either will experience or already have. They need us to care.
Please let me know if you have any questions and if you would like to write.
Thank you,
Michael