One
You are a prayer in the most holy mouth, the space between clasped hands, a landscape so picturesque, any angle. You are a reminder that magic exists.
Two
Oh they will stop and stare, you most divine creature with unapologetic skin and fearless features. Learn to take a compliment. Settle into being the center of things.
Three
When you fall in love, let it be with a person who asks nothing of you. Your existence should be enough. If they do not kiss you urgently and often, find someone who understands that lips in the presence of love should ignite passion.
Four
Keep a few great friends. When they tell you harsh truths, learn to listen for the love. Growth is necessary and annoying at times, but look and you will always find the silver lining.
Five
Buy the perfect shade of red lipstick. It, like the perfect black dress, are weapons. Use them at will.
(Speaking of red…)
Six
Stop hiding your tampons. You are a woman. You bleed. Grown people know this. If he is afraid of menstruation, he is not prepared to be inside of you.
Seven
Do not apologize for existing, for being yourself. Apologize when you are not.
Eight
If you work hard, ask for a raise. Find your backbone and attach it to your standards. You deserve the money that correlates to how hard you work.
Nine
Feed yourself kind words, chocolate, quality people, random first date, solitude, orgasms, and books. You will need really, really good books. Live in the story of them.
Ten
If all else fails, repeat after me: I am enough.
