“Does it matter that I’m not a parent?” This was the question that reverberated in my mind during the early conversations about me assuming the role of managing editor of RFM.
Despite having the professional qualifications, I was worried that not being a mother meant I couldn’t or shouldn’t take on the job. I feared I wouldn’t be able to bring as much value to this magazine as someone who’s experienced parenthood could.
But then I reminded myself that this is Richmond Family Magazine, and family does not necessarily equal parenthood. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and this magazine is intended for all of them.
It’s for the young couple who can use all the tips they can get as they prepare to welcome their first baby. It’s for the single parent looking for advice and suggestions on how to keep their kids busy. It’s for the adult children who are navigating the role of caring for their aging parents. It’s for older adults who want to stay informed and for grandparents looking for ways to connect with their children or grandchildren. It’s for the pet parents who love and care for their four-legged friends like family. It’s also intended for your chosen family — the individuals who may not be related to you by blood but by bond.
Growing up, I was incredibly lucky to have both a biological family (my mom, my dad, and my brother) and a chosen family (friends of my parents) who played instrumental roles in my life. My biological family loved and cared for me day-to-day, but my chosen family was also there to fill in any gaps. Whenever I was sick and needed to leave school early, it was always my mom’s friend Leslie who would pick me up and take care of me. When my niece passed away, it was mom’s friend Dawn Marie who took me to the funeral so my parents could be with my brother. And when it was time for my mom to go back to work after I was born, it was my parents’ friend Jane who looked after me every day for many years and became my best friend and the reason I’m a writer today.
These women may not have had children of their own, but they cared for me as mothers would, and they’ve always felt just as much like family as my blood relatives. They taught me that family isn’t just who you’re related to, but it’s the people who are there for you, love you, and continuously show up for you when you need them.
Now, as an adult, I’ve expanded my chosen family to include my best friends, their significant others, and their children, and I care for them just as Leslie, Dawn Marie, and Jane cared for me.
So, it’s my hope and plan as managing editor of RFM to help provide meaningful, helpful, engaging content for all families – whatever that may look like for you. I’m honored to be taking on this role and look forward to serving our RFM family.
