The Importance of Aunties
When I got married, I had sixteen bridesmaids in my wedding. Sixteen. Not because I wanted a big wedding, but because I had so many best friends from the different stages of my life. Each of them walked down the aisle representing something beautiful in themselves and the friendships we created.
These women are now becoming the Aunties to my children.
I’m following in the steps of my mom. She kept her best friends in her life by weaving them into the fabric of our extended family. I grew up with many fantastic Aunts that I didn't realize were not related to me until I was old enough not to care. In our house, Mom made the rules, but Aunties made the fun. My kids deserve these kinds of Aunts, and I need these kinds of friends.
I know these friendships will last because my mom proved it to me. On the day before Mom died, her best friend from high school came from far away to visit her bedside. This lifelong ‘Aunt’ then wrote this on The Cards at Mom’s funeral:
“Joan and I always walked each other half way home when we left each others house. I’ll remember Sunday, January 19th as the last time I walked her half way home.” - S
I hope to be that kind of friend, no matter the time or distance. Life will only continue to get more challenging, and there is a long journey ahead. The best guides will be the lifelong friends that have turned into family. My children will know them as their Aunts, but they will first be my friends.
And so I am reminded of the golden rules of friendship and parenting:
- Cultivate abundant Aunties.
- I’m teaching my children about the importance of friendships, even if they aren’t paying attention.
- Always walk each other half way home.
