On Christmas day, my sister shared the wonderful news with my family that she was pregnant.
This means I am going to be an aunt. Being the closest in age of all the soon to be aunts and uncles of my family, I decided to write my niece or nephew a letter to spare them the long talks about "when I was your age."
Dear Future Niece or Nephew,
First of all, I'd like to say its wonderful to welcome you in to our big family. As your Aunt, I will try my very hardest to always be there for you when needed for some spoiling or fun. I will also say that I have several aunts and uncles that I have had the pleasure of taking some notes from over the years, so I believe I am well accredited for the job. Anyways, as a young person I've learned some valuable lessons from my relatives and life experiences, and I'd like to share a few with you.
1. Love your parents, especially the older you get.
Growing up, I was really good about being loving to my mom and dad, but as I got to be a preteen and teenager, things changed. It all started in fifth grade when kissing dad goodbye while getting dropped off wasn't "cool" anymore, and it all goes downhill from there. I wish I could have changed that. Now I am in college, miles away from them and a phone call is about as much love as I can send. Your parents will unconditionally love you, so please pay it back to them.
2. Don't slack on school work.
I still need this advice from time to time. Even from elementary, it will come back to bite you in the butt, and for the love of all things good, don't lie about your grades.
3. Never let your past mistakes define who you are now.
Regardless of what anyone tells you, you know who you are and who you are not. When someone puts you down, do not let that get to you. Your mind is your best friend and your worst enemy in this case, and it will take time to learn that everyone has imperfections and flaws. It's when you see yourself as those insecurities that life is at its most unhappy time.
4. You can always do more than what you think can do.
In high school, I never would have thought that I would be writing for my college or competing in a collegiate sport, yet here I am. Find what interests you in life and explore different hobbies whether it be sports, ballet, music, or art and don't let go of them.
5. Never stop having fun.
You will learn most life skills through play. Play does not stop after childhood. If you aren't having fun in your hobby or career, it simply isn't the path for you and that's okay. Explore your horizons, for they are endless.
I hope your life brings you all the joy and wonders this world has to offer. I cannot wait to meet you and spoil you rotten.
Love,
Aunt Susie
