Taylor Swift's Eras Concert

I attempted to be the coolest Aunt by taking my niece to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Although I can't lay formal claim to the coveted title of her favorite aunt, the cherished time spent with her proved to be extraordinary. There's a special significance when an individual invests time in an activity they understand will bring a loved one joy. Little did I anticipate the profound impact the concert would have on me, especially with her right alongside me.

We arrived at the concert a few hours early, eager to secure some merchandise. As we waited in line for t-shirts, a pair of young girls approached us and asked to trade friendship bracelets. I can't quite explain why such a simple gesture brought tears to my eyes, but I'll attempt to analyze it. When you've been conditioned from a young age, as a woman, to view others with apprehension, to shun interactions with strangers out of fear of potential harm, and to keep a low profile, those lessons linger heavily. As those two young girls reached out to trade bracelets adorned with empowering lyrics, something inside me melted. It felt as though a younger version of myself was reassured and recognized that this environment was one where kindness prevailed, far removed from the cautionary upbringing I received as a woman navigating this world. Witnessing my niece exchanging bracelets with complete strangers and openly admiring outfits that attract attention filled me with an overwhelming sense of pride.

In addition to the incredible sense of community that accompanies being a Taylor Swift fan, belting out her lyrics at the highest volume alongside my niece stood out as one of the most memorable moments. For my friends who claim not to be Taylor Swift enthusiasts, I typically pose a single question to them: "Have you delved into her lyrics?" They are akin to poetry, and for those who appreciate songs, she unquestionably ranks among the finest lyricists. Singing these lyrics with my niece proved to be immensely cathartic:

• “I'll get older, but your lovers stay my age." — Taylor Swift, “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)"
• “f*ck the patriarchy” - Taylor Swift, “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)"
• "'Cause shade never made anybody less gay so" - Taylor Swift, "You Need To Calm Down"
• "They wouldn't shake their heads and question how much of this I deserve. What I was wearing, if I was rude, could all be separated from my good ideas and power moves?” — Taylor Swift, “The Man”
• “There goes the loudest woman this town has ever seen. I had a marvelous time ruinin’ everything.” — Taylor Swift, “The Last Great American Dynasty”
• “But I come back stronger than a ’90s trend.” — Taylor Swift, “Willow”
• “Never be so politе you forget your power.” — Taylor Swift, “Marjorie”
• “My pennies made your crown.” — Taylor Swift, “Karma”
• “He wanted a bride, I was making my own name.” — Taylor Swift, “Midnight Rain”

Thank you Taylor Swift for giving me this moment with my niece.