I don’t know who said that kids were blessings. Let us be honest for a moment. It is Fucking WORK!!!!
I mean, life is no longer about you, if it ever was. You cannot just leave and go out and do what you want when you want. Actually, that also ends when you get married. However, back to having kids, it’s sacrifice after sacrifice. And that sacrifice is yourself. And yet, beautiful moments can come about from parenting, such as deep awareness and understanding of unconditional love that is if you don't get swept away by overwhelming chaos and an endless to-do list of things that needs or should be done. Children can remind us of the magic in everyday life, the fun we should have in all that we do, and to stay curious and adventurous about what each moment has in store for us.
And then there is single parenting, which is a whole different level of sacrifice and chaos. Especially, if you're not getting any help from the other parent. As a single parent myself, there are times when I actually curl up in a ball and cry because the responsibilities and demands are so overwhelming. The fact that I am giving, doing, and being my best seems to never be enough. And it makes me feel defeated. Sure, I get over myself, wipe the tears and get back up, because I have three "innocent" warriors who depend on me. However, where is the support system when I need it? Yes, I have my family; however, they have their lives, and they help where and when they can. Regardless, I'm so thankful I have them as I do. But for those who don't, we need to find the resources, and frankly who has the time to research resources and make the phone calls? Although, if you want it done you will do what you have to in order to get it done..
Parenting is parenting and it is tough. It is vital to take care of our well being: mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.
A few things I do:
*I write a list of things I'm grateful for no matter how little.
*Journal
*Move, dance, hike
*Trust that everything will work out as it should.
*Keep moving forward. Because going backward isn't an option.
*Pray.
*Seek help where I can and from those I trust.
*And when someone offer to help, I gladly accept.
So to all parents: I see you, I hear you. And I know you are doing the best you can. There is no rulebook in parenting. All we can do is do our best. If you're doing that stand tall. It's so easy to get down on ourselves when something that society says is wrong happens.
And to all those who work with kids and/or have been a support to parents, thank you. If you think you are not making a difference in the world. By shining your light and making an imprint in their lives, you are. No work goes unnoticed.
Show love, kindness and grace for yourself.
You are loved!
You are worthy!
You are enough!
💖
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