Mum, tell me that you enjoy talking with me.

I will grow up — and I will know that I am interesting.

Mum, talk to me about feelings.

I will grow up — and I will understand myself.

Mum, support me when things are hard for me.

I will grow up — and I will be able to support the people around me when things are hard for them.

Mum, do not forbid me to cry, to be angry, to be sad, to be glad. Be cheerful or sad yourself, show your feelings, admit your mistakes.

I will grow up — and I will know that I am OK.

Mum, notice what is happening with me.

I will grow up — and I will be capable of emotional closeness with other people.

Mum, comfort me when it is hard for me, when I make mistakes, when I fail. Support me instead of criticising.

I will grow up — and I will know how to support myself and others.

Mum, ask me what I like, take my needs and interests into account.

I will grow up — and I will know how to care for myself and for others.

Mum, allow me to refuse you, to disagree with you… Respect my point of view when it differs from yours.

I will grow up — and I will know how to say “no” and how to respect opinions I do not share.

Mum, give me a little freedom, stop controlling me all the time.

And then I will grow up responsible.

Mum, do not rush me into being grown up, let me be a child for a while. Allow me to be weak, to be small…

Then I will grow up kind and compassionate….

Mum, love me just as I am.

I will grow up — and I will feel that I am precious.

Mum, be here beside me while I am a child.

I will grow up — and I will not suffer from loneliness.

And one more thing. Please hug me more often.

Oleksandra Hryn