In celebration of March being International Women’s Month, I want to highlight a special group of women who are not often acknowledged. I’m talking about single mothers. I was raised by a single mom for the majority of my life. My parents divorced when I was just turning nine in third grade. My father, of course, was there to help in raising my sister and I, but my mom was always the one there for both of us at all of our activities and performances. After my parents’ separation, my mom was my rock and raised me to be the young, independent woman I am today. I know firsthand how special single mothers are and how much work goes into raising children alone.Â
Women are incredible beings. I mean, the fact that women are able to grow a child and give birth to life is amazing. Women often have to fight for their rights and to be treated as equally as men. Women are not always taken as seriously as men and are often silenced. As generations push for change, women are beginning to find their voices and speak up for their needs and rights. Single mothers often feel alone in their struggles and try to do everything by themselves. That’s how my own mom was because she wanted to be fierecely independent and not let my sister and I see how much she was trying to make ends meet for us.
Looking back at the sacrifices she made for my sister and I, I am amazed by her selflessness and courage. She had to move into a new house with no furniture and fear of the future. She had to be brave for us and continue to raise us the best she could. I don’t know if I would have been able to have that same strength and determination within me if I were her. I will forever be grateful to my mom for teaching me how to be a kind and compassionate person. She taught me how to take care of myself and not be afraid to chase after my dreams and goals in life.Â
While all mothers are amazing and strong, I have a special place in my heart for single mothers because I know what they have to go through. They have to take on the role of both parents, continue to work, and try to provide for their children all at the same time. My mom showed me that I can get through anything and that nothing is impossible. So, here is to the single moms for International Women’s Month because they deserve it! If you know a single mother in your own life, please encourage her and tell her how much you admire her and how strong she is!
Rachel