Clap for yourself. 

Becoming your own biggest fan will teach you how to celebrate your wins, even when and if there is no audience. In a world where you will often be the only Black student, dancer, and woman, you will need to quickly learn that there is always a place for you, even when others may not see it.

The right thing is not always the easy thing, but it will always be the right thing.

Your character is who are when no one is looking. Your character will be the light in the darkest of times, that will serve as a foundation for who you are, what you stand for, and who you will stand with. Be more concerned with what is right, than who is right.

The world is changed by your example, not your opinion. 

You will get to spend at least 30 Sundays on the sidelines, cheering on America’s Team as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. But more importantly, you will spend thousands of other “normal” days, in the community, where so many look up to. It is your responsibility to be gracious, to be impeccable and intentional with your words, and to be present.

Just because you carry it all well, doesn’t mean it’s not heavy.

You have always been and will always be fiercely independent with the slightest sprinkle of stubborn. Learn to ask for help. We all get by with a little help from our friends.

More than anything, you will be really, really proud of “older” you. You never did learn how to cook, but you will continually surprise yourself with the people you meet, the experiences you live, and the stories you will one day tell. Have an open heart, growth comes from being uncomfortable, and take it all in.