Nia Long’s Essence Feature Includes Heartwarming Letter from Son, Massai

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Nia Long covers Essence April 2014 wearing Michael Costello jumpsuit and Coronet earrings photographed by Nino Muñoz

Nia Long covers Essence April 2014 wearing Michael Costello jumpsuit and Coronet earrings photographed by Nino Muñoz

Actress Nia Long covers the April 2014 issue of Essence Magazine , where she speaks on raising her sons and her latest film, Single Moms Club , in theaters March 14th.

Also set to star in WeTV’s first scripted series The Divide this fall, spoke openly about the struggle of balancing a successful career and an enriching family life.

“I’m not a movie star mom who’s got a private chef, a nanny and a driver. My mantra is, ‘You created this, you can handle it.’ I think that if you’re committed to being a great mother, single or not, you’re going to enjoy every moment you have with your children.”

The heartwarming feature includes a love letter to Nia from her eldest son and Single Moms co-star, 13-year-old Massai, who writes (in part):

“You are loving, and are always there for me and my little brother… You have also taught me that in order for me to reach my goals I have to accountable for my actions and choices, and in order to be the best I have to go the extra mile.”

Check out the full letter and more photos from Nia’s Nino Muñoz -lensed shoot, as well as behind the scenes video below.

Massai Dorsey, Jr. pens letter to mom, Nia Long for Essence Magazine April 2014

Massai Dorsey, Jr. pens letter to mom, Nia Long for Essence Magazine April 2014

Nia Long as May and Massai Dorsey, Jr. as Rick in 'Single Moms Club' (2014)

Nia Long as May and Massai Dorsey, Jr. as Rick in ‘Single Moms Club’ (2014)

Nia Long for Essence April 2014 wearing Michael Costello jumpsuit and Coronet earrings photographed by Nino Muñoz

Nia Long for Essence April 2014 wearing Michael Costello jumpsuit and Coronet earrings photographed by Nino Muñoz

Nia Long for Essence April 2014 wearing dress from Celeb Boutique, earrings by L'Dezen Jewellry, cuff by Alex Soldier, and sandals by Sebastian photographed by Nino Muñoz

Nia Long for Essence April 2014 wearing dress from Celeb Boutique, earrings by L’Dezen Jewellry, cuff by Alex Soldier, and sandals by Sebastian photographed by Nino Muñoz

Massai Dorsey, Jr., Talita Long, Nia Long Essence Magazine April 2014 by Nino Muñoz

Massai Dorsey, Jr. wearing shirt by J.Crew, jeans by Gap, and shoes by Terrazas; Nia’s mother Talita Long wearing dress by Vera Wang, earrings by Vanessa Leu, necklace by Jared Jamin, sandals by Report Signature; Nia Long wearing dress by La Petite Robe di Chiara Boni, earrings by Vanessa Leu, ring by Charles Albert, and sandals by Sebastian for Essence April 2014 photographed by Nino Muñoz

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