Friday, May 10, 2013

Mother's Day

I've not left my kingdom, I'm still around... I'm just busy with life's ups and downs which, quite frankly, are far more pronounced when one is a single mom of three trying to make her way through the world, than they were in my more carefree married days.

Back then, I used to wonder how single moms did it. I always had a great deal of respect for them. I relied heavily on Prince Charming for a variety of things related to us, our future and to the kids, and simply couldn't imagine my life without him in it.

Silly princess.

What I believed then were the challenges, stresses, fears of single mothers did not even come close to the reality of that which exists. That is not to say that I feel regretful or unhappy; quite the contrary, actually. I know the decision was the right one for all involved, and even though I often wake with more questions than answers, finding the means and methods to forge ahead on my own has provided me with a greater sense of self and purpose than I might ever have had otherwise. I find myself more fiercely protective than ever not only of my children but of my heart, hopes, dreams and it makes me commit even more to the mantra with which I have lived my life since I was 8 years old: I will find a way or make one.

And so I say Happy Mother's Day to all of the mommies out there. It's the hardest job we'll ever love. I'll add a special thought for single mothers: I hope you are lifted up and celebrated not only by your loved ones this weekend, but also by you. For you know, better than most, that you have lifted yourself up time and time again, but perhaps, in the process, forgot to celebrate the amazing woman that you are. You are.