My teenage niece has been close to me since she was born.  She has always been a sweet child and has grown into a sweet teenager.  When she feels uncomfortable discussing things with my sister (her mother) she feels compelled to share them with me (her favorite aunt).

I am so sad to say that she discovered she is pregnant.  This child of only sixteen years failed to discuss with either me or her mother that she was actively having sex with her boyfriend.  I am ashamed of myself for never broaching the subject and now she has become a statistic.

I love her no matter what and I feel confused in the way to respond.  Part of me wants to run out and buy all kinds of custom crib bedding and soft cloth diapers.  Do I celebrate the coming of a new baby in this family?  The other part of me wants her to figure it out with her boyfriend.  Let them make the big purchases and understand the expense of raising children. This is not going to be an easy road they chose.  I love her dearly and I don’t want her to suffer but if I enable them then they may never become responsible for their “family.”  Do I throw a baby shower for a niece that I love for a decision I don’t support?

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