I'll admit it. I'm the Ethel Mertz of "I Love Lucy", the Alice Nelson of "The Brady Bunch", and the Monica Geller of "Friends". At a young age, I was known as the "Mother Hen" of the neighborhood and classroom, clucking and hovering over every single happening. I followed the younger kids around, often breaking up fights or patching skinned knees. The parents often left me in charge of the activities, and as I grew, the responsibilities began to mount.
However, unlike most, I always was (and still am) proud to be the responsible mom. I'm the friend with which others discuss their problems, so I am also the keeper of all secrets. Who wouldn't want to be that person?
For years, I never knew that acting as the "Mom Friend" was actually a recognized action. Yet, college came around, and now I realize the accuracy of the description. According to Urban Dictionary, the "Mom Friend" is defined as "that one friend in your squad that's super responsible and almost over-protective of them." Watching movies like "Sisters" and "How To Be Single" confirmed my already-concrete position as the mom. Apparently, every group has a mom, but many do not recognize this ever-important position within themselves.
If you are curious as to whether or not you are the mom of your group, here are a few circumstances to consider:
1. Do you always leave a larger tip because you are worried that someone forgot to leave anything at all?
2. Will you always be the designated driver?
3. Do you cover meals for friends who are unable to pay?
4. Do you remind your friends to "be safe" and "make good choices"?
5. Do you orchestrate all plans or get-togethers?
6. Are you the "good girl" regarding life choices and behaviors?
Answering "yes" to at least five of the six choices solidifies your legacy as the "Mom Friend" of your personal group. Please don't retreat into denial, and don't be disappointed! In your care, every friend is guaranteed to be safe and to have fun. Remember, a "mom" is always happiest when her "kids" are happy. You may not be the life of the party, but you will always guarantee that the police are never called.
