Dear Summer, I’m Letting Go…

By: McKena Pennignton

Dear Summer,

This year, I’m arriving with a softer heart and a clearer mind.

I’m not chasing perfection anymore—not in my plans, my body, or my relationships. I’m letting go of timelines and letting the sun guide me instead.

I’m letting go of needing to always be productive.

Some days will be slow. Some mornings will be spent lying in bed with the birds chirping and no rush to be anywhere. I’ll welcome them like an old friend, not a failure.

I’m letting go of comparison.

Of measuring my joy against someone else’s highlight reel. My summer doesn’t have to look

like Capri sunsets or endless parties. It can be grocery store runs in a linen dress. Beach days with sand in my shoes. Quiet moments that no one claps for—but I’ll feel them deeply.

I’m letting go of holding it all together.

I want to laugh a little louder, cry when I need to, and let people see me fully and unedited. I

want real connection, messy joy, and moments that don’t fit in a square frame.

I’m letting go of fear.

Of what ifs and not-yets. I’m choosing adventure over worry, even if it’s just saying yes to

trying a new thing, or going on solo dates.

This summer, I want ease. I want presence. I want to feel like I’m exactly where I’m meant to be—even if I don’t know where I’m going yet.

So dear summer,

I’m showing up as I am—fearless, flawed, full heart. And that feels like enough.

With love,

Me