What Being An Aunt Means To Me

On August 26, 2007, I became an aunt. I remember the day my first nephew was born, I was only 12, but was very excited to meet him. Technically, I was not Immediate family to him and I was only 12, so I wasn’t allowed into the room at first, but we told the hospital that I was his sister so I could finally meet him. I remember waiting in the hospital halls watching the nurses and doctors check on people from room to room patiently waiting to go in the room. I stood in excitement, happiness, and anticipation but I still had no idea how much being an aunt would impact my life.

As I walked into the room,l I remember looking at this tiny, cute, baby boy. He was wrapped up in what looked like a cocoon, a white blanket with baby blue stripes and he had gloves over his hands so he couldn't scratch his face. I didn't say anything for awhile I just looked at him and wondered if I was ever that small. Then my sister told me to sit up nice and tall and get my arms out to hold him. The first time holding him all I remember was thinking how much this baby was going to change my life. I wouldn't be the youngest and have all the attention anymore but on August 26th, 2007 I gained the title Aunty Destiny, and that changed my world completely.

Today, I am blessed to have 3 nieces and 1 nephew. My nieces and Nephew have taught me so much. They have truly brought out the best in me. I can be carefree, silly, happy and a little bit crazy when I’m with them. Now being 18 I can still enjoy building blanket forts around the house or bringing them to the playground. The world changes every day. People tend to forget to stop and take in all the little things in life, these kids are differently one of the most important aspects in my life. They have shaped me into who I am today.

The kids have taught me responsibility. Being their Aunt has been a long but rewarding journey. As an aunt. I am essentially, their second mom. I am their family, friend, protector, and, their role model all in one. Being an Aunt brings a lot of responsibilities, I have to be their friend but also take on the role of their mom when they are with me. I have tried to create a bond with each of them so when they start to experience tough issues that they can come to me for anything and everything.

On August 26th, 2007, I had no idea what would change in my life, I was just excited to be an aunt. Seeing how happy they get as they run towards me calling aunty is the best feeling to know how much they look and appreciate me. Becoming an aunt, as also made the connection between me and my siblings stronger. My sister has truly been my biggest role model in life, watching her balance taking care of 3 kids, work two jobs, take care of two cats and a dog and have free time is incredible. She does everything on her own, which is extremely incredible. My sister has become my best friend, a person who will always be there for me no matter what.

Being an aunt is the best job in the world, especially being a young aunt. I get to take on a “mom role” and learn about everything before I become one. I get to get the experience before I have my own child. I love all three of my nieces and my nephew. I am extremely lucky to be able to take on the aunt rule, I wouldn't trade being an aunt to these kids for anything.