Dear Mia,

For 28 years, God has kept you safe and healthy. Take a moment to pause and think of the times you passed by danger; maybe God was hiding you. You moved to New York when you were 12 years old and starting taking public transportation alone and meeting new friends. I'm impressed by how quickly you adapted to a new environment at such a young age. At 16, you caught two buses and a train to attend a high school that offered dance and art, and you got your first job at Queens Center Mall. You have always been motivated to make a living for yourself. Attending the High School for Arts & Business exposed you to Latin culture and you met your husband during your senior year. Because you always knew what you wanted to do, you enrolled in an acting conservatory after high school. Your ambition and drive is inspiring to look back on.

After you finished the acting conservatory, you auditioned for TV and films. You almost got fired for

auditioning in the middle of your shift! You are a risk taker; you are bold and brave. At other times, I

have wept for you. I have felt for you. You didn't take time to care for yourself, which lead to your

anxiety disorder and being homebound for 6 months. Instead of complaining about having an anxiety disorder, you have incorporated it into your dreams. You have remained in therapy and you have accepted your diagnosis, so now you are able to tell your story. You are no longer waiting to be discovered or seeking validation.

You have faced many challenges but you are still kind to people and willing to help others. You have

made many proud. You have an old soul; you enjoy deep conversations, and you would rather have one true friend than six acquaintances. The beach is truly your happy place, and I hope you can get there more often. All the things you worried about never came true. You are alive and healthy. Celebrate yourself today!

"My wish for you is that you continue. Continue to be who and how you are, to astonish a mean world with your acts of kindness. Continue to allow humor to lighten the burden of your tender heart."

~ Maya Angelou