18th Wishes

Eighteen, my girl — and ready for the world in ways that take my breath away. Wherever you go, whatever you choose, we're behind you all the way. Happy 18th. We love you.

Eighteen, niece. Let me tell you what I actually know about being eighteen now that I'm old enough to say it: everyone around you is just as confused as you are, they're just better at hiding it. Trust yourself more than you trust the performance everyone else is putting on. You're already miles ahead, and you don't need to rush the rest. Happy 18th.

Eighteen, son. I'm going to tell you the truth, because you're old enough and we've both earned it: adulthood is mostly just making decisions before you feel ready and figuring it out on the way. You will be fine. Probably. The key word is 'mostly.' Go be brave, call home, and remember that Googling something is not the same as knowing it. Happy 18th.

Eighteen, nephew. The honest version: you now get to make your own mistakes, which is a privilege people underestimate. You don't have to be right. You just have to be honest about where you're going and why. The rest you figure out as you go , which is what every adult you know is still doing, regardless of what they tell you. Happy 18th. You're ready. Probably.

Eighteen, son. The world opens up today — and you are ready for it in ways you don't fully see yet. Be brave, be kind, be brilliantly yourself. We are so proud. Happy 18th.

Eighteen, my girl. I'm going to give you the same advice I give everyone about to be handed the keys to the whole world: the world will tell you who you are before you've had a chance to figure it out yourself. Don't let it. You get to decide that. Be stubborn about it. Call home. Happy 18th. I'm so proud it's embarrassing.