Many kids look like one of their parents. Resemblance among family members is a pretty common thing. You hear things like, “You have your mother’s smile.” “… your dad’s ears.” “… your grandpa’s balding pattern.” What Nia hears is a little different.
Strangers sometimes act floored when they see us together. One of our CVS clerks can’t get enough of how much we look alike. When Nia isn’t with me at the store, the clerk asks where my “mini-me” is and then proceeds to announce to her coworkers, “her little girl looks JUST like her!”
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Sure, I can see a resemblance but I also see her. I see Nia. Not me. She is uniquely and adorably herself and it’s hard for me to believe I could be as precious. When she hears, “You look just like your momma,” what does she feel? Right now, probably nothing. But what about when she gets older? What if she grows to resent it?
I also never know how to react to people’s reactions. I respond politely. I thank them. Tell them my genes beat my husband’s. Smile. Then, I turn to Nia and say, “You look like you. Don’t you Sweets?” Beautiful, beautiful Bean.
Mommy & Bean
Are You Zhazha? 
I look a LOT like my mom. When I was younger, it was fun. When I was a teen, it was torture. Now, as an adult…I see how beautiful my mom is. I love the person she is and I love being compared to her…even the smallest bit.
I’m sure Nia will always love that she can see you in the mirror…it will comfort her.
I’m sure she knows she is her own person. Looking like you doesn’t mean she has to follow your footsteps. It just mean God couldn’t improve upon His perfection.
That is so beautiful, Karen.