My niece got her driver's license today. First thing this morning. First try out.
I'm proud of her for her tenacity. This is when she planned to get it, and this is when she got it.
I'm also pleased that I got word from her via text as soon as she passed. She does that a lot -- reaches out to me at important moments. (Before this, it was her "Happy New Year" text when I was in the Keys.)
Her mother thinks she's aloof and tough. Her dad and my mom, her doting grandmother, are more kind in their assessment, but they worry about her "smart mouth." I love her toughness and her smart mouth. She's ambitious and toughness comes in handy on the way to your dreams. And as one who makes a living with her own way with words, I look at my niece's "smart mouth" as an asset, as well.
No, I'm proud of her for how far she's come. For while in my family, we don't discuss it, 2007 was a painful year for her … and us. Underneath that aloof, tough, smart-mouthed exterior beats the heart of a complicated girl trying to find herself on the road to becoming a woman. On these big moments in her life, it's important to remember that.
Which is why, when I texted back my congratulations, I thanked her for sharing her good news. I am here for her. I am always here, in good times and bad. It's a privilege to be in her life -- to play a role in any kid's life.
Congrats on the license. What a step!
ReplyDeleteYou are a great Aunt!
ReplyDeleteCongrats!
ReplyDeleteCongrats to your niece.
ReplyDeleteI really understand this whole post. Those of us who don't have that parental connection with a child really thrive on having a whole different kind of one with them. An Aunt can be so many things - friend, confidant, voice of reason - it's a great role and one I relish with delight.
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy for you that you have that with her. (And great that she passed her test and told you about it!)