Parenting is hard. Yep, I just admitted it. It’s especially hard when you’re a single parent. That was the environment I grew up in, a single-parent household. Although my mom was constantly stressed, I hardly knew it. However, the older I got the more I understood that raising me without a partner was difficult. I began to understand all the sacrifices she made for me. I understood how hard she was working to provide a good life for me. Of course, I still didn’t fully understand, but I would.
The Realization
I can still remember the exact moment that it hit me. I had been home with my newborn for only a week. And I was exhausted from round the clock breastfeeding, constant diaper changes, and trying to keep the house clean, among countless other things. And this was all while my husband was home on paternity leave to help. It hit me all at once that I couldn’t imagine doing this all alone. The next time I saw my mom I told her I had no idea how she did it. I have no idea how any single parents do it.
I’ve always appreciated all the things my mom has done, and continues to do, for me. But being a mom myself now, gives me a whole new perspective on it. I realize now what it’s like to know you’ll do anything for your child. I realize now just how hard being a parent is on your own mental health and how much it affects your life.
Staying Strong
I know I will never be able to thank my mom enough, but I try. She never gave up. Even when she was stressed beyond belief. Even when I had to come to the office with her because there was no one else to watch me. Even when she had to tell me I couldn’t have a certain toy I wanted because we didn’t have the money for it. Even when helping me with my math homework caused frustration. She was always strong. I feel so incredibly blessed to be her daughter and to have such a strong woman to look up to. I hope I can be even just half the mom she is.
Even though this Mother’s Day will look and feel different for us all, make sure you let your mom know how much she means to you. You might not always see eye to eye but she’s your mom and she loves you more than she loves chocolate. To all the single parents out there, I see you and I appreciate you.
