DEAR HARRIETTE: My brother is much older than I am (15 years) and just had a child. I have been asked to be my nephew’s godmother! Honestly, I am not quite sure what this position entails. I am honored, but I don’t know if being a teenage godmother is frowned upon, or if I could even fulfill whatever duties I am supposed to do. -- Godmother Duties, Tampa, Florida
DEAR GODMOTHER DUTIES: You are right to take this role seriously. When a person accepts the role of godparent, it means that you intend to help guide the child in his or her life. You agree to be a moral compass for that person, including being a sounding board as the child grows up. The goal is to be an extra support to a maturing child, someone who can reinforce the parents’ beliefs and help ensure that he or she stays safe and well-focused for a fulfilling, honorable life.
Can you do that? Sure. You should also know that this is probably a way that your brother is hoping you can become close to him and his family, despite the big age gap between you. Rather than considering this an awesome burden, think of it as an opportunity to get closer to your family and be an important contributor to your nephew. It does make a huge difference for family to bond together when a child comes into the family. Go for it. You can still enjoy your own growing up and the many twists and turns inherent in that. Being a godparent may help you to make smarter choices for your own life as well!
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)