Dearest Yara,

On the night of the 16th of September, 2024, I was admitted to the hospital in Dubai, waiting with both fear and anticipation. And on the 17th, my life changed forever; you were born, Yara.

That day was an emotional rollercoaster for me. Without my mother near me, miles and miles away from her, I gave birth to my first child – you. I was emotionally drained for many reasons, but through it all, I was excited and blissful to finally meet you, the person who had been with me for nine long months.

You are so deeply loved, Yara. Even today, I believe you are that part of me that can never be separated, not until my very last breath.

I still remember the day of my fifth-month scan when I learned you were a girl. In that instant, I made a promise to myself: my daughter will grow with strength. No one will ever tell her, “Because you are a girl, you can’t do this.” I had heard those words too often, but thanks to my parents, I never believed them. They gave me the freedom to dream.

At this moment, I want to speak about my father, your grandfather. He never told me to confine myself, never clipped my wings. In my hardest times, he stood by me. His love was selfless, his support unwavering. That is the kind of parent I want to be for you, Yara.

Like him, I promise never to restrict your thoughts, your choices, or your dreams. I want you to grow free, brave, and kind. I want you to know that the world is wide, and your voice matters in it. You are my hope, my strength, and my eternal blessing.

Yara, your name itself carries a story of love, pain, and remembrance. You are named after a little baby from Palestine, Rouh, which means “soul.” She was taken away too soon, her innocent life cut short by the cruelty of war. When I heard her story, it pierced my heart, and I knew that in naming you Yara Rouh, I was keeping her memory alive. I wanted you to carry not only my love but also the spirit of resilience, hope, and justice that every child deserves. You are a reminder that even in the face of loss, love endures, and souls never fade.

One day, when you read this, I hope you feel the love I poured into every word. You changed my world, Yara, and from the day you were born, I knew I was born again too, this time, as your mother.

Happy first birthday, my little soul. You are, and always will be, my greatest gift.

With endless love,
Ummi