In every life circumstance, we have a role. Often that role is quick to name, but sometimes that role is difficult to define. It is important to consider your role in any circumstance, and when confused about your role, it's important to ask questions, consult the team and reflect upon your responsibilities related to that role.
While our role names may remain the same, the responsibilities related to that role will likely change. I thought about this today as I considered my many roles in life, roles mainly related to family including mom, daughter, sibling, wife, aunt and cousin. Who am I in each of those role and what are my responsibilities?
Mom
Now that my children are young adults venturing out on their own, my role as mom is to mainly support my children's good lives in ways that I can. Also as a mom, I want to continue to encourage my children to hone their skills, work hard, love their friends and family members, be responsible, contribute to the greater world and have some fun too. Further, I want to play a role in keeping our family close and caring.
Daughter
Of all my roles, this one is probably the most challenging right now since my parents are aging, and the supports and expectations are not as clear to understand or navigate in today's worlds. Compared to most of my grandparents, my parents are living a much longer life and their health care/life supports are not simple to understand or support. I've read a lot about this and continue to think about my role in this regard. For starters I am committed to supporting a loving routine of healthy, positive life supports such as good medical care, nutritious meals, a warm, loving home, safety and some fun too.
Sibling
I am fortunate to have many siblings. Each of my siblings is living their own life. We come together regularly to celebrate special events and people, and to care for my parents. As the eldest child in my family, I always played a bit of a "mother" role since as a child I took care of my siblings a lot. Now at this age, it's important not to be the "mother" but to respect my siblings' lifestyles, choices, opinions as well as to help out, collaborate, support and celebrate when I can.
Cousin
I have 56 first cousins and many, many other cousins as well. As cousins we have shared countless celebrations and adventures throughout our lives which has made us close. I still see many of my cousins regularly. My role with my cousins is mostly a celebratory role, but I seek the advice and support of some cousins too since they have many life experiences, expertise and perspectives that bring wisdom and direction to my life.
Aunt
I have many nieces and nephews. I want them all to have good lives. I often celebrate their good times and accomplishments. I am here for them if they need me, but for the most part, their parents, siblings, partners and other loved ones are there to support their everyday living, choices and needs.
In-Law
My husband has a wonderful family and I want to be there to support keeping his family close and supportive too.
It's important to think about the many roles you play in life and what's included in those roles now and then. As an educator, that was an important, regular point of reflection as well. Onward.