The Aunt I Aspire To Be

Everyone I know is aware that my sister is expecting twins. Madynn Elizabeth and Tristan Campbell are expected to make their appearance by November. Although they were an unexpected surprise, the love that our family already has for them is astounding.

I am a single 21-year-old in my senior year of college. I am at the prime time to do anything I want without major consequences; yet I find myself on Pinterest everyday looking at onesies and diaper bags. I have always loved kids, but the love that I have for these unborn peanuts is something that I have never felt before. My biggest hope for them is for them to be safe and never want for anything.

Though they won't be here for a few more months, I already know what kind of aunt I want to be for them. I want to be more than the cool aunt that has the best Christmas gifts. I want to be more than the person they call when they get in trouble. I want to be more than a last minute babysitter.

If there is anything that I have learned about children over the years, it is that they are impressionable. No action goes unnoticed. For that reason, I want to be a better person. I want to excel in this last year of college and graduate with honors in order to show them the power of hard work. I want to find an awesome job that I love to show them that work isn't work when you enjoy what you do. I want to remain a strong and devout Christian and show them what it means to walk with God at your side. I want to treat my family the best way possible to show them what love looks like. I want to remain close to my sister so they see how important it is to be there for your sibling no matter how obnoxious they get (no offense, Taylor).

One of my biggest lessons to these children will be that no matter how many ugly things happen in this world, there is still so much beauty. In a time like this where racism, violence, discrimination and other things that plague the world are so prevalent, it is hard to think about bringing children into the chaos. It hurts to know that my niece and nephew may be subjected to wrongful prejudice because of the color of their skin. But even though the reality is scary and doesn't always look too great, there is still so much to appreciate about the lives that we are given. From being able to eat a full meal every night to knowing the love of a pet, there are many blessings to count alongside the burdens.

I strive to be a role model for Madynn and Tristan. Though I am not their parent, I am someone that loves them dearly and wants the best for them. I feel that a part of that is being someone they look up to. Kids, I promise to remember that you are always watching, and know that I am always thinking of you and the lessons I may be inadvertently teaching you.

See you soon, babies!