A year ago today, on his birthday, my nephew came to live with me. He had experienced some pretty heavy life-changing circumstances, I was still navigating grief, but I think we both needed this time to push each other, to grow, to learn. It’s not always been easy and he’d agree with me. We’re similar so we can butt heads, but I think maybe he’s learned a thing or two from his old Aunt Becci. I know I sure have learned from him.
If we are lucky, people can be positive catalysts for change in our life. I know that I would not have pursued scuba or worked so hard to do an art show or even been as open to dating, if I hadn’t had the persuasion/encouragement/goading from my nephew. I’m thankful for it even if sometimes I get irritated.
I know the next chapter, where he’ll be in his own place, is coming sooner than later. We’re both glad about that, but I can also say how thankful I am to have had the time to learn more about him and me. And I will miss our daily conversations when that happens. Of course that has me curious about the future.
Recently, in conversation with my bonus mom, I talked about frustrations of feeling stuck. Sometimes the consistent, familiar rhythms of life seem peaceful and other times like a prison. I don’t know why that is, but she offered some perspective, maybe I’m confusing stuck with rest, which I have a fretful time doing. It’s been a busy year with activities, fundraisers, gardening, creating and selling art, meeting new people, enduring heartache, and navigating loss all while working 40 hours a week and maintaining a home. Maybe it’s time to step back and rest just a little.
Or maybe move to Australia for a year. I don’t know.
