Power to the Single Parents

The life of being a single parent can be a hard one. Sometimes it feels like you have to wear a lot of different hats all at the same time. You have to be the mother, the father, the friend, the disciplinarian, the breadwinner, etc.

Most people don't understand. They think, "Oh it can't be that hard," or ask, "What are you complaining about? We took care of our children just fine." As just some of the examples I have heard from couples.

For people who are not in this situation, they cannot relate.

They do not understand what is so difficult!

It is much easier to have a significant other to help with the load.

But not all of us out there are that lucky!

We are the unsung heroes. We are the ones that stay up long hours into the night, taking care of a child with a fever or a cold. Then get up in the morning to go to work for eight to 12 hours, come home, help them with homework, feed the children, make sure they brush their teeth, read them a bedtime story, and put them to bed. Then do it all over again the next day. Parents that never get a break. Do it every day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Don't stop. Remember why you are doing it. Every time those little or big faces look up at you and say I love you. That is what we do it for.

We are the nurses and the playmates when there's no one else for your child to play with.

I have a seven-year-old and most of the time I am the one playing dolls, puzzles, Monopoly, or having a tea party. Doing the laundry, cleaning, making sure she eats healthy, and getting on her about making her bed or keeping things picked up. There's no one else to do these things but for me. I love my child, but most people just don't get how hard it can be day to day.

All the parents out there that do this on a daily basis, who have a kid or more, you need to know you are wonderful, appreciated, and keep doing what you are doing. You may not feel valued at the moment, especially by your kids, but know that someone else has been in your shoes. I value you.

I may not know you and we will probably never meet, but you are special for taking on the challenge of being a single parent. It may not be ideal and you might be exhausted or frustrated, but just remember every time you wipe those tears away or kiss that ouchie, you are loved, and know I am in the same boat as you. I go through the same thing you do every day with my little one.

You are doing a wonderful thing and don't let anyone tell you different!

One day your children will look at you and say thank you for everything you did for me growing up.

So next time you're out and you see someone with a kid or a bunch of kids, and you know they are taking care of those kids alone by themselves, don't criticize them or judge them. Put yourself in their shoes.

Instead, encourage them for doing what so many others cannot.

Everyone needs to hear encouragement once in a while.

So be sure to tell any single parent out there that you know that they are doing a good job and to keep it up.

You will definitely brighten their day.

Never stop fighting the good fight, single parents, and stay strong!