Alexandra's letter to Olga, dated January 1, 1909

Alexandra wrote this letter to her eldest daughter Olga on January 1, 1909.

Source:

A Lifelong Passion, letters and diary entries compiled by Andrei Maylunas and Sergei Mironenko

The letter:

My sweet little Olga,
May the new year 1909 bring you much happiness and rich blessings. Try to be an example of what a good little obedient girlie ought to be. You are the eldest and must show the others how to behave. Learn to make others happy, think of yourself last of all. Be gentle and kind, never rough nor rude. In manners as well as in speech be a real lady. Be patient and polite, try to help sisters in every possible way.

When you see somebody sad, try to cheer them up and show them a bright sunny smile. You know so well to be sweet and gentle with me, be so towards sisters too. Show a loving heart. Above all, learn to love God with all the force of your soul and He will ever be near you. Pray to Him with all your heart. Remember He sees and hears everything. He loves His children dearly, but they must learn to do His will. I kiss you very tenderly, sweet child and bless you lovingly. +

God be with you and the Holy Virgin watch over you.
Your old Mama

Above: Alexandra.

Above: Olga.