A letter from May 27, 2025

Dear FutureMe, My mom sent this to me and I want you to remember it. Every woman should have… A little money of her own — Enough to rent a place and leave, Even if she never wants to, And hopefully never needs to. Every woman should have… Something fabulous to wear — For that surprise interview or long-awaited date. That piece that says: I’m ready. Every woman should have… A youth she’s proud to outgrow with a smile. And a few reckless adventures To laugh about with her grandchildren. Every woman should have… A toolkit with real screwdrivers, a drill — And one black lace bra that reminds her she’s still got it. Every woman should have… A friend who makes her laugh in the rain, And another who’ll hold her hand in silence When her world falls apart. Every woman should have… At least one piece of furniture she bought herself — Not inherited, not borrowed — truly hers. Every woman should have… Eight matching dinner plates, eight wine glasses, And one signature dish she can serve with pride. Every woman should have… A solid belief that she is in charge of her own life. And every woman should know… How to fall in love — without losing herself. She should know… How to quit a job, leave a toxic relationship, Confront a friend — and still hold her dignity. She should know… When to fight for something — And when to let go. She should know… She cannot change the length of her legs, The shape of her hips, or her parents’ past. She should know… That her childhood may not have been perfect, But it is over — and she survived. She should know… What is worth doing for love, And what should never be done for anyone. She should know… How to live alone, Even if she doesn’t like it. She should know… Who to trust, who not to, And that it rarely has anything to do with her. She should know… Where to go when her soul needs stillness — Whether it’s a friend’s kitchen or a mountain hideaway. Because every woman is a universe. And knowing herself is the most important journey she’ll ever take. — Inspired by Pamela Redmond Satran