Choosing a godfather or godmother can seem like a headache for many parents.
In my case, the choice was clear.
To me, a godparent is someone who:
- will always be there for your child, no matter what decisions they make or what path in life they choose
- will take the time to listen to them and offer guidance, even as life moves so quickly
- will stay by their side over the years
- will be an excellent role model for them. They certainly aren’t perfect—since no one is—but they’ll set a good example for them.
If the person you have in mind meets all these criteria, don’t hesitate any longer. She’s the one!
No matter what the people around you may prefer or advise, you know deep down that she is the best person to fill this role.
This isn’t a decision to be taken lightly or to please others. It must be made for the child, plain and simple. It’s the child and their current and future needs that matter.
I tell myself that when my daughter is old enough to have her own private thoughts and her own little problems, she’ll need to be able to confide in someone other than her parents—someone she trusts and who can give her good advice. Of course, that person will have an idea of what we, as parents, would like her to say, but it will be up to her to decide what advice is best to give. We’ll also trust that person to let us know if we need to pay closer attention to a particular situation.
So, when the time comes to choose godparents for your child, remember this all-important word: trust. That’s the key!