8 Comments

I don't know if I called this out when editing, but this is my favorite line:

She listens. Really. Truly. Listens. To littles as young as 3 and 7. She asks them about their favourite books and friends and dreams. She watches them evolve into their interests.

It is so beautiful and says so so much about a person.

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She is one special person! And I will share this with her. Because she needs to know it isnt just me saying so. Thanks Emma!

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Sep 13Liked by Karena

Love this post! I simply must meet this Aunty S!!! ❤️❤️❤️

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Jun 24Liked by Karena

What a beautiful tribute to your sister, Auntie Shanny! Love the description of her ability to listen deeply to little-uns and to hear their dreams. Your mum did a great job raising all of you.

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This is the kind of moment when I really miss my Mum, Joann, because my first instinct was to run over to her to show her what you wrote! Thank you. Shanny is a gem for sure.

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<3 Love this piece that highlights the positive effects that varying relationships have in our lives from a young age. It feels more important now than ever that there are positive role models around us (and for youth!) rather than influencing someone to buy my product/service. I built my learning coaching practice around the research that you are the sum of the 5 closest people to you. Aunty Shanny sounds like a very special addition to everyone.

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I would love it if "Aunty Shanny" became the equivalent term for those in society who offer support and encouragement (in the opposite way "Karen" is used!)

Thank you for being someone who offers encouragement to others, and a space for them to feel seen.

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I think you’re onto something here - flipping the Karen messaging around! 😍

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