Do
you have an Auntie? I hope so because everybody deserves to have someone
in their lives who will encourage, support and think they are wonderful.
Many
people have asked me about my title of Auntie Artichoke. Whose aunt am
I? Do I have many nieces and nephews and they call me Auntie Artichoke?
Actually, I do have relatives, but the title of Auntie has nothing to do
with blood lines but rather spiritual connections.
It
is an honorary title that is given to a woman who has a great influence
in the life of others. This title implies strength and an ability to see
the best and encourage good choices. In many cultures, including
Hawaiian and Native American, wise, kind and guiding mentors and
teachers are called Auntie and Uncle as a sign of respect and affection.
The
underlying message of an Auntie is love and acceptance. As an Auntie, I
am able to share wisdom and insight without the "shoulds" and
"should nots" parents like to enforce. There is no shame,
blame and criticism.
Aunties
can listen without judgment, share without restrictions and love
unconditionally.
I
am honored to be called Auntie and to use the Artichoke as a symbol of
the work I do. The artichoke is a strange food and many have never tried
it because they were not sure what to expect. It certainly looks funny.
But
the artichoke is very much like the families I work with across the
world who are just like yours and mine.
We
are all closed off and held tight at first glance. Some of us have
prickly ends and don't want to be opened or examined too closely. The
only way to open an artichoke and a family member is with patience and
warmth.
Until
the artichoke has time to cook, the leaves won't open and reveal the
true treasure-which is the heart. As you pull apart the leaves, you will
find them increasingly delicious and meaty. When you have spent the time
and effort to unfold the heart of either the artichoke or person, you
will find the heart.
After
you finish peeling and eating an artichoke or visiting with an Auntie,
you will see there is much more there than meets the eye. There are
hidden depths waiting to be discovered.
My
wish for each of you is to find an Auntie or Uncle who will love you
unconditionally and assist you on this journey called life. My second
wish for you is that you BE an Auntie or Uncle and that you mentor and
guide others. Help them to find their true hearts.
