Host Elizabeth Tiglao-Guss reflects on taking on an unofficial maternal role through her large family, with about 11 nieces and nephews and 10 godchildren, beginning when her first niece was born as she turned seven. As the youngest until age 16, she became hands-on early—learning caregiving tasks and later building close, sibling-like bonds with her oldest nieces and nephews—eventually becoming the aunt who was consistently available for all of them to talk and vent. She also describes being a “secondary” godmother not officially listed on church paperwork but still fully committed, emphasizing that a title never determined how she showed up. She acknowledges that this does not replace longing or grief for one’s own child, but argues that children in your life deserve your care regardless of role, and that many forms of mothering are real without the “mom” label.An Unofficial RoleGrowing Up a TitaBonding Through the YearsGodmother Without PaperworkTitles Don’t Define LoveHolding Grief and Giving LoveShow Up Without a LabelFinal Takeaway and GoodbyeConnect with Elizabeth:IG: @bychanceavenueStay connected & up to date with all things By ChanceWant to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

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