A few weeks ago I had an extraordinary experience. It may seem simple, but to me it inspired an acknowledgment of all the great moms out there.

While playing mini golf with one of my oldest and dearest friends and her two kids, Henry and Samantha, I basically started to…stink at mini golf.

I started out strong but by Hole 5, I was losing my edge. I expressed this verbally, so as I approached Hole 6, a chorus broke out: “Don’t stop believin’!” “You can do it Steph! Don’t give up!” Yes, Henry and Samantha had become my own private cheering section. They were jumping up and down with their little putters, cheering Auntie Steph on.

I had one of those moments where you just freeze. First of all, these two little ones under seven years old had learned compassion and encouragement and were willing to share and express it with confidence. I was beyond touched by their kindness, but more so this demonstration of their still-forming character that shone like a bright light.  

I mean who doesn’t love a little “Don’t Stop Believin” on a summer day? You have to hand it to their mom for teaching them about music when it was real music!

This moment stuck with me for the past few weeks. I shared it with other friends as an adorable anecdote. Then it began to take on a new meaning.

It may seem like a simple incident. A cute story. A few days after it, I received a text from my friend that read “We are at IHOP. Henry is really excited because the waitress’ name is Stephanie and he wanted me to tell you that.”

Again, this may seem like a simple, cute tidbit of life. For me, it is a reason to properly express thanks to the mothers who have given women like me an opportunity to experience children in our lives. We didn’t perhaps expect or plan that at this point in our journey we wouldn’t have a family of our own, but on behalf of the Savvy Aunties out there, I’d like to thank these moms for the following things:


Thank you for teaching your children kindness. This kindness allows your kids to share it with others.

Thank you for teaching your children it is safe to be loving and open with other adults you deem safe.

Thank you for being secure in your own self that you are willing to share the love of your children.

Thank you for modeling respect, communication, and how to have healthy relationships with others.

Thank you for opening your home, your heart, and your family to include us. Thank you for traditions, holidays, gestures, and all of the things you include us in. Thank you for realizing that your family is part of a larger global family.

Thank you for cultivating and nurturing your relationships with us as your friends that feel like family.

I’ve said it before, and I will say it again: thank you for giving us the space to be Savvy Aunties—to experience the joy and gifts of childhood with you, even if just in small amounts.

For this and the many gifts you have given us: Thank you to the great moms who realize that having kids really isn’t just about them, but rather, it is about giving a gift to the world.

Photo: Dasha Petrenko
Published: July 27, 2015