I couldn't have imagined it'd be possible to love these nieces of mine like I do. All 3 of these girls are amazing!
They're each incredibly different and special. The youngest being a 40-year old dictator trapped in a 6-year old;s body. This body by the way, being the spitting image of my sister's. All of the girls look like her in their own way.
The middle child is just like me. OMG, it's been scary seeing the similarities. She is so clumsy and light-hearted, while being incredibly tender and courageous. A perfect balance between naiveté and being keenly aware all at the same time.
Just like me, when she saw a field of dandelions, her knee-jerk reaction was to skip towards it, exclaiming exactly like I would, "look at all those flowers!"
The oldest is just as unique and beautiful as the other 2 girls. I have had the least time with her. At 14, she is a tough nut to crack and communicating with her has not been easy for me. Being honest with her was the best thing I could have done though and I hope she realizes how much I really am listening to her.
Even when everyone else is laughing and talking, I can hear her back there, making hysterical little comments. It doesn't seem like people notice she is saying much, but I am listening and think she is so funny.
I tell each of the girls how important they are to me every time I see them and am so glad I have had this opportunity.
My mother has afforded me this chance to see them and for us to get to know each other, I am grateful for every minute I have had with them and appreciate everything she has done to facilitate that.
I know we all have our own opinions and feelings as to why these girls haven't always had an ideal life. I know there is guilt and resentment on a lot of people's parts. But, there is no way to go back and change anything.
The only thing we can do now is make each day count. Spend it doing something good for ourselves and others. Take a little time to talk to new friends and enjoy our surroundings and family as much as possible. And treat those around us like we know would make them feel happy and loved.