1 year ago, I was a taking a summer class based on social media. While in the class, my classmates and I had to create a social media campaign using any social media platform we chose. Around this time last year, challenges on Facebook were a big thing. You had everything from the #NoMakeUpChallenge, the #RealHairChallenge and everything in between. Since I already had a blog, I decided to create the #WriteYourselfALoveLetterChallenge which was centered toward anyone who wanted to publicly celebrate themselves for once.Since I already had a blog and enjoyed writing about self-love, I decided to create the #WriteYourselfALoveLetterChallenge which was centered toward anyone who wanted to publicly celebrate themselves for once.The challenge did really well on Facebook, and I had people left and right tagging me in their love letters. It was eye opening seeing people be so vulnerable with themselves and the public. It was also heartbreaking to see how so many struggled to affirm themselves because they have been burdened with low self-esteem and negativity for so long.The challenge was so impactful that this past Valentine's Day I was invited to lead and host a workshop for the Women's Center in Carbondale, IL where I was asked to speak on self-love, positively affirming yourself and of course, write love letters with them.So here we are one year later and I decided to do an update letter. If you want to read my original letter, you can read it here. 

Dear Kia,

Last year when you wrote this letter, you were personally battling a storm that not too many knew about and you didn't think that you would survive it. Each day was a mental and emotional battle that no one fully understood and while you appeared to be resilient and strong, you struggled to hold on just a little bit longer when you secretly wanted to fall apart.The year of 2016 was a tough one. You battled some serious issues and fell into a deep abyss of darkness that no one but God, counseling, and yourself could pull you out of.

But you got out. You got your magic back. And I'm so proud of you.

I love you because you are the definition of light. I love you because you are relentless in pursuing your passion, and you are willing to do whatever it takes to manifest your dreams.I love you because the older you get, the more you grow into yourself. You know who you are. You know what you want. You embrace how multifaceted you are. Every day you look in the mirror and decide that in spite of what you've been through, you know that you are worthy of love, affection, commitment, blessings and every good thing that this world has to offer.I love you because you constantly try to do the work that goes into being a better person each day. I love you because you have gotten more comfortable with transparency. You know that there is strength in vulnerability, and know that even though it is sometimes difficult, your story must be told.I love you because you are always willing to grow and learn. You don't confine yourself to only receiving knowledge in a classroom, you seek ways to self-educate and stand firm in your beliefs. I love you because you are passionate, and you exude that passion in everything that you do.I love you because you are human. Yeah, you believe in positive vibes but you also believe in telling people when they have you fucked up. No longer are you that little girl who allows people to walk all over her or who suffers in silence because she is afraid of what people may think or say about her.I love you because you are humble. You are thankful for all the blessings you receive, and in turn, you do your best to bless others. I love you because you know the importance of lifting others as you climb because you know the power that is in paying it forward.I love you because you love yourself enough to protect your energy without missing out on meaningful interactions. Your level of discernment has been so high lately and you have started listening to your gut when things don't look, feel, or sound right.I love you because you know the power of walking away. I love you because you don't let life's circumstances make you bitter. You may have your bad days, but you are not bitter.I love you because of how you dream. You have million dollar ideas in your head girl. You surprise me all the time with what you come up with.I love you because you choose to be powerful.Obviously, I love you for your inner and outer beauty. Your smile still lights up a room. Your hair is a crown of glory. Your shape is to die for. Your personality is unforgettable. You are the peace and calm for many storms, your words empower and connect with many.I love that you've kept your promise to yourself about writing more in 2017. Not only have you been writing more, but you've been writing some good shit at that! You're growing so much in that area and I am so happy that you have something that makes you happy. It truly warms my heart to see you work on something and bring it to life and then share it with others with the hope that it may motivate, connect and inspire them.I love how you have overcome so much since last year. You are strength in its highest form.The woman you are is truly amazing and I will always love you, support you and affirm you every step of the way of your life journey.I love you because you succeed. Congrats on all your accomplishments and congrats to much more!I love you because you don't fold for anyone's foolishness. You have mastered the art of loving people from a distance and I couldn't be more proud. You love yourself enough to know who deserves your time and energy and who does not.I love you because there were a few times last year when you were emotionally suffering and you thought you would never get over it and you thought you wouldn't survive. But one year later and look at you: surviving and shit. ♥I love everything about you girl, even the "ugly" parts because you fearfully and wonderfully made. You are perfectly imperfect. You are about as dope as they come.Here's to another year of reflecting, progressing, and growing into a better woman each day.

Love always and forever,

Kia ♥♥♥

 ____________________________________________________________________________________________Have your participated in the challenge? Then I encourage you to write an update letter to yourself and post it or email it to me at kiasmithwrites@gmail.comWould you like to participate in the challenge? Then read the rules and post away! Don't forget to tag me in it on all social media sites @KiaSmithWrites