Melody,

My sweet Melody, you are growing into such a lovely little lady. I wish I was a better mother to you. God, you deserve it. You are so smart and witty. Not to mention how sweet you can be when mommy is having a bad day. 

I was just a damn fool for leaving you with grandma for two years of your little life, because I was consumed with drugs. Baby, mommy was hurting so bad and grandma and grandpa were the only safe place I could think of. I regret every day that I choose drugs instead of you.

Your father was a man I slept with once and all I know his first name. And I know it hurt you so much when you found out that the daddy you knew your whole life wasn’t your real father. God, I screwed up so much. That’s probably why I let you get away with murder and run a muck now at 10 years old. I know I have a long way to go in repairing the damage that I did to you, my love.

But sweetheart, mommy will always be here for you no matter what. You are my little song that keeps me going. I love you so much.

Mom, age 33