The relationship which seems least defined in our society is that of being an aunt. It has almost no boundaries or expectations. There is no holiday for the role of loving your brother and sister's kids, yet it is my favorite role to explore from a position of wonder and amazement. This year my youngest niece will graduate high school with many honors I'm sure, and my oldest niece will graduate from dental school. I couldn't be more proud, yet their accomplishments don't define my pride, its just simply and profoundly being their aunt that gives me joy. From the moment they were all born I just fell deeply in love with them and just love hearing about the way they are all navigating the world, each on a different journey which is as it should be. I am still connected to the nieces of my first husband, although I haven't seen them since they were little, I find myself staring at photos of them and their families on FaceBook, getting tremendous joy out of knowing they are doing well in the world. I fell in love with my (now) husband's nephew and twin nieces from the moment I met them too.
Making them all laugh, often at me, is one of my favorite things to do. The role of being an aunt is best worn, I think, as a non-judgemental cape of solid support and love. I hope I wear it well.
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