I think she wants you to know that she will care for you, and be there, even in your most painfully raw vulnerability. That you don't have to protect her from the very difficult things that have hurt you, you can let her see. Nurturing your self-esteem could mean starting to appreciate yourself and your intrinsic self-worth more, realising you deserve respect and good things, and that you are capable of great things, with her guiding you.