I completely forgot until my sweet friend Nancy just wished me a Happy Single Parents Day ...today is Single Parent Appreciation Day!
Because I wasn't prepared, I'm re-running a post from Single Parents Day 2009. Here's a list of reasons why I'm grateful to be a single parent:
1. I am no longer in an unhealthy relationship, which means my children are not growing up in a house full of distrust and harsh words.
2. I spent the first years of my daughters' lives so wrapped up in dealing with my husband, that I was not a good mother to my children. I am grateful that I have now spent more years of their lives being a better mother to them than I was when I was married.
3. My checkbook is my own. I no longer have fear when I hit the ATM since I know exactly how much I have, and how much I've spent.
4. I have sole legal custody. I am grateful that I don't have to fight with my ex about what is best for the girls.
5. I am no longer waiting for someone to show up and co-parent my girls. I have accepted the responsibility.
6. I have control of the remote. And I don't have to worry about the toilet seat.
7. I am grateful for my parents' help. I am grateful that this has brought us closer together.
8. I am grateful that single parenthood brought me back to Southern California. After living in several cities and a few different states, I know I am home.
9. As much as I bitch about having a deadbeat ex, I am grateful for my job and my ability to provide my children all of the necessities, and some extra.
10. I am grateful for the friendships I have made and those that have reached out to help and support not only me, but my daughters.
Okay, so this life ain't easy. There's not a day that goes by that doesn't present some new challenge. And sometimes I fail. But I'm here. I get up every day, and my first thought is about my children, and nearly everything I do - even the things I do for me - is for their benefit in the long run. Yep, I'd much rather be me, the single parent who is at least striving to meet the challenges, than my deadbeat who can't even show up for them.
Single parents, take a moment today to pat yourselves on the back. And if you're a friend of a single parent, take a moment to wish them well today .
3 comments:
Well, it appears that I will be joining your ranks soon. I just want to say that regardless of the differences in our faith and politics, you are one of the greatest single parent role models I know. I'm sure I'll be reading back through your blog a lot in the months to come gleaning wisdom and tips. The "Zoom place" may have been a disaster, but I'm glad I met you there.
Oh my...I had no idea how much you and I have in common. Other than the fact that I have boys instead of girls, we're virtually identical (according to your list)!
Happy Single Parent Appreciation Day. (How on earth did I miss that?)
For real? I never knew such a thing existed.
I'm not sure whether I think it's good, or not good - which has nothing to do with appreciation for every parent who is responsible.
But it's a bit sad that this is where our culture is. At least, to me.
But yes, we should pat ourselves on the back more often, rather than shredding ourselves and feeling guilty over all the things we perceive that we could do better. It's a tough road, which you know all too well.
And a shame, that so many of us must walk it, with our children clinging tightly for the long frequently bumpy ride.
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