Aunt Viola – A Guiding Light, A Rock in My Life

Aunt Viola – A Guiding Light, A Rock in My Life

By Kateb Nuri-Alim Shunnar

You know, there are those rare people in life who show up just when you need them most. They’ve got this magical way of lifting you up, showing you the ropes, and guiding you through the chaos. For me, that person has always been my Aunt Viola. From the time I was a little kid all the way through adulthood, she’s been my rock. I can’t even begin to put into words what she means to me. She's not just my aunt; she’s been a mentor, a friend, a protector, and someone who always, without fail, made sure I knew I was loved.

Growing up, Aunt Viola was like the center of gravity in my world. She was the one handing me candy when I was low, cookies when I needed comfort, and, oh, don’t even get me started on those Mississippi mud cakes. She wasn’t just about the treats, though. No, she had a way of making you feel special even in the simplest moments. Of course, there were also those “less pleasant” moments like the occasional butt whipping when I got a little too wild but that was part of her love, too. She wasn’t afraid to discipline, and she always made sure I learned the lesson without feeling less than. She had a way of balancing the tough love with sweetness that somehow always worked.

But it wasn’t just about the candy and cakes. As I got older and life started throwing its punches, Aunt Viola was still there. She was there when school got tough, when my dreams felt too big, and especially when I started writing my book. There’s something about an aunt that goes deeper than just family. She’s got a certain role in the family that’s like the secret sauce. You’ve got your parents laying down the law, but an aunt? She’s the one who lets you know it’s okay to mess up, who teaches you to laugh at life’s crazy twists and turns, and who always seems to know when you need a little extra love and encouragement.

I can remember so many times Aunt Viola would pull me aside, speak to me softly, and remind me to keep going. "Don’t give up, baby," she’d say. And when I didn’t believe in myself, she believed in me more than I did. She reminded me that everything I was going through was a part of the bigger plan. Even when I couldn’t see it, she was there, offering prayers and peace, and telling me that I was on the right path. Through every high and every low, she’s been a constant reminder that I’m never alone.

And let’s not forget how Aunt Viola knows how to have a good time. She’s not just about all the serious stuff; she knows how to laugh, dance, and live in the moment. I’ll never forget when we went to Nassau. The whole dance floor was lit up, but somehow, Aunt Viola and I took it to a whole other level. We were so into it, we probably left the floor smoking for hours! We didn’t care who was watching. It was about enjoying life, being free, and just feeling the music. That night, Aunt Viola wasn’t just an aunt; she was my partner in crime, reminding me that life is about dancing through the storms and not taking everything so seriously.

When I reflect on my spiritual life, I realize how much Aunt Viola’s quiet strength has shaped my soul. She’s shown me what faith in the Creator really looks like how to live it, breathe it, and share it. Through all the prayers she’s sent up on my behalf, through every kind word, and through the example she’s set by living a life of love and grace, Aunt Viola has helped me grow closer to the divine. She’s walked this road with me encouraging me when I didn’t have the strength to keep going and teaching me to trust in something bigger than myself.

Today, I just want to take a moment to let the world know how thankful I am for Aunt Viola. She’s been so much more than an aunt. She’s been a teacher, a healer, a prayer warrior, and above all, a friend. I can’t begin to count the times she’s pulled me through when I thought I was too weak to go on. She’s shown me that love isn’t just about saying it; it’s about living it through the tough times, the joyful moments, and everything in between.

Aunt Viola, thank you for everything. For the prayers, for the Mississippi mud cakes, for the wisdom, for the laughs, and for walking with me through this crazy journey. You’ve been my beacon of light, and I’ll always be grateful. You’ve taught me more than you’ll ever know. Love you, Auntie.