Amazing Women Speak! June 2014 June 2014 | Page 9

Yazmin, Najma, and Ilana Fakir Daughters, I’ve thought about writing a letter like this one many times and have never followed through; sometimes God provides the push we need. Yazmin, when I found out that your mom was pregnant with you back in 1993 I was like a scared little boy without a clue what to do and how I would provide for you, so I did the only thing I could. I followed God. You were born on a Sunday morning at 7:01 am and I’ve never been the same. Your entrance into the world began a transformation in me that continues to this day. God is not through with me yet. Najma, your spirit, intellect and candor challenge me each and every day; your mother chose correctly when she adorned you with the name that means “star” because you shine brightly everywhere you go. Always know that you don’t need others to illuminate you. Ilana, you display a depth and maturity that is beyond your years and I am grateful to witness your growth. Do not let those that don’t understand or appreciate you extinguish the intellectual fire that burns within you. I want you all to know how proud I am of each of you. Each of you is blossoming into the beautiful young lady that you were created to be. I encourage each of you to walk into your destiny and to do all within your personal power to follow the inner voice of God that speaks to and guides you. I also want to thank each of you for being (and continuing to be) a catalyst for my growth and maturity. You may not know it but your very presence in my life has caused me to be a better man. I thank you for loving me imperfections and all, and I look forward with anticipation to see God’s plan come to fruition in your lives. With more love than you know, Dad www.amazingwomannetwork.com AMAZING WOMEN SPEAK! 9