Aunt-T
replied at
2:13pm
on
Mar 4 2014
To paraphrase a Bible verse, “As an Aunt thinketh, so is she.”
Unlike parenting, Auntie-ing is whatever you want it to be. Choose to think that it is the coolest, most honorable role on Earth and your feelings will catch up.
You get to nurture, love and appreciate kids in creative and exciting ways. Kids think you're fun because you make them feel special, and that ability is a gift from God.
So find ways to connect with each kid in your life. Don't wait for a party invitation. Take the kid out for an experience. Send them something in the mail. (How many kids get snail mail?) Or just simply pay attention to them. Listen as they ramble on about their day, favorite new thing, or latest complaint. You're building relationships with people who will someday see you as a resource. You know things their parents may not-- like independence and self reliance.
Who knows? Maybe someday you can teach them to appreciate the path they are on, and to stop comparing their life to others. (That is, once you've taught yourself!)
So, go! Enjoy your life, meet new people, have experiences, and show your nieces and nephews how great life can be.
And for goodness sake, you're 32. Stop looking for validation from parents—your own or anyone else’s!