Over the weekend, my family and I were about to go out to a restaurant for my sister’s birthday dinner. We all decided to wear nicer clothes for the occasion. My eldest niece was wearing an adorable jumpsuit with a colorful butterfly pattern. As the rest of us were finishing up getting ready, her little hazel eyes drifted to me and she asked, “Should I change into something different? I like what I’m wearing, but I don’t think other people will.”

My heart sunk as I absorbed her words. Only nine-years-old and already worrying herself about the criticism of strangers. I paused, trying to think of the best answer; what I would tell my younger self if I could. So I said, “If you like it, baby, then wear it. The only person whose opinion of your clothes matters is you. Wear what makes YOU happy.”

She seemed to think about my reply, though she asked again whether or not I thought she should change her outfit. Later on, she changed into an equally adorable and colorful striped dress, and asked my opinion on it. I said, “I think they’re both equally cute and you should wear what you’re most comfortable in.” I can only that hope by instilling these thinking habits of self-love in her, she will grow up to be confident.

Despite the dread I felt when I realized society has already begun sinking its claws into the innocent, I also feel honored that my sweet niece values my opinion. That she knows she can come to me with any questions and concerns and I’ll be there for her. And I will forever do my best to ease her insecurities and help her to be her best self.

-A.B.