My immediate reaction was "Are you drunk, babe?". You seriously want me - and my sheer cynicism of religion - to be your daughter's spiritual guide through life? To make sure that your child is brought up in a Christian manner? Are you mad?!!
But there was a method to the madness! In true organised Rachel style, my old friend had arranged for Sarah to have 4 godparents! 2 of which fulfilled the Roman Catholic requirement, and hence would be the "true" sponsors of the baptism. The other godparent was Chyi, another one of my old friends from school. Of course, Chyi, being a cosmetics magnate (see her company here), would provide the girl with a lifetime's supply of Dainty Doll Lip Cushion cosmetics (endorsed by Fergie, no less!).
So what was my role in all of this, I wondered? Rach said that I just needed to remember birthdays and Christmases and to be there for Sarah when both parents couldn't be around. I think I could do that - I'll also throw in some finger paint when Sarah gets old enough so that she can do some interior decorating on the walls at home. Maybe also bring her out for Mcdonalds and sweeties and return her to her parents when she is on a sugar high and hyper-stimulated?
But in all seriousness, I am really excited about this. I think that this is the greatest complement that a parent can pay a friend - and for this, I am truly very flattered. I will endeavour to play the role with all earnestness and sincerity. Perhaps not necessarily from a deeply religious perspective, but certainly from a common-sensical view of the world.
I most definitely will be trying my best to steer clear of changing diapers though! Here is a picture of the little tyke - she is soooo cute!
