Rita Petlane

Complete letter, transcribed from three photographed pages.

Dear 17-year old Rita,

These are exiting yet confusing times for you. Balancing school, friendships, and your future feels overwhelming, but one day, you’ll see that these experiences were essential for your growth. Its natural to feel scared with such significant life changes, especially at your age. Despite the fear, you find moments of joy, hope, and anticipation for the new life you brought into the world. Remember making mistakes is a normal part of growing and learning, so be gentle and forgiving with yourself when things don’t go as planned.

You are confused and uncertain. You are excited about the life you’re bring up in this world but also worried about providing for it and fearing judgement from others. You will learn and grow immensely from these changes. The world is rapidly evolving, bringing incredible opportunities, even if it doesn’t seem that way now. Yes, you will face judgment for having a baby at such a young age. I urge to focus on the bright side. For one, the bond you will form with your child will be unique and one of the most important relationships you’ll ever have.

I understand you felt isolated and judged because of your pregnancy. It was lonely. But when you think about it, you’ll learn that you’ve actually never felt a sense of belonging in your own community. Would you say that there was a point in your life when you felt trully integrated into your community? You’ve always known you didn’t fit in, which made you a people pleaser, constantly seeking acceptance and approval. Additionally, becoming a mother at your age will set you even more apart.

However, you will learn the importance of being true only to yourself but for your daughter’s sake. You will one day look back and realize that it’s normal to feel both scared and excited at the same time, and these emotions are valid. Despite moments of doubt and uncertainty, life will prove you are stronger and more resilient than you realize. The drive you have, the so-called "unrealistic goals" of working in an organization that advocates for those who cannot speak/standup for themselves will one day come to fruition. Your dreams of graduating and owning your own home will be achieved and you will feel safe, appreciated, and loved.

I want you to know that I am so proud of your brave decisions. You choose not to give up, and to continue your journey pursuing an education while working. All this with a little help from family, village elders, and friends. Well done for finding the strength to be positive and courageous. That is resilience. You realized that taking your problems head on and believing in yourself is crucial for your growth and becoming a good role model for your child and others to come. I want to take this moment to tell you that you are amazing. Slowly but surely, you are becoming everything you dreamed of. Thank you for not giving up on us, for being strong, and for being kind to others and positive about the future.

With love and pride.
Future Rita.

— Rita Petlane

Transcribed from the photographed pages. Original wording retained; crossed-out words omitted.