Every weekday, from dawn until dusk, I’m knee-deep in parenting. I’m the face-wiper, the butt-wiper, the snack-fetcher, and the story-reader. I shuttle my little ones to their various activities, juggle schoolwork that involves coaxing them through writing and math on the computer, and orchestrate intricate science experiments. I’m a hug dispenser, referee for sibling squabbles over toys, and sometimes, I sneak away to the bathroom for a moment of peace—only to be discovered every time. I even make a meal out of my kids’ leftovers. It’s a chaotic routine, punctuated by letting the dogs in and out, in and out, in and out.
Then, at 4:30 p.m., my husband comes home and we collapse on the bed, turning on the TV while he takes over parenting duties. He cooks dinner, wipes faces and butts, and helps keep the peace. I may be exhausted from a day of nonstop activity, but I’m grateful—I’m not a single parent.
I wake up at my own pace, whenever the kids decide to rise. I don’t have to drag them out of bed at 6 a.m. for daycare, rushing to beat traffic so I can clock in at a job I might dislike. I’m lucky enough to have a partner to share the load of parenting; I can’t imagine the challenges that single parents face. I’m in awe of you.
There’s a lot of chatter about the so-called “mommy wars,” where stay-at-home moms and working moms seem to be pitted against each other (and let’s not forget dads—they’re part of this too). It often feels like we’re at odds, judging each other for our choices. But honestly? I don’t judge you; I admire you. I can’t fathom how you manage it all alone.
When my husband is away for the weekend, I feel overwhelmed, but at least I know he’ll be back to give me a break. I can’t imagine doing it all without that safety net. You keep going, day after day, without the chance to tap out for a quick nap or to take a breather when things get tough. You handle the constant demands on your own, and I respect that.
There’s a misconception that stay-at-home moms look down on daycare, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. For many single parents, daycare is essential, and you work hard to find a place you trust. I can’t imagine the stress of scrambling for childcare when facilities close for holidays.
Then, after a long day’s work, you come home to face another round of parenting—face-wiping, cooking, packing lunches, and cleaning the whole house, all while managing the laundry alone. You’re the one who lays out clothes, ensures everyone has clean socks, and keeps track of the little things, like making sure you have enough ketchup and that shoes fit properly. These are the moments that truly make you a hero.
And somehow, you ensure your children are fed, loved, educated, and cared for. I have a support system, and I still find myself feeling overwhelmed and drained. I can only imagine how you must feel, yet you keep pushing forward.
So let’s put aside the petty disputes of the mommy wars. It’s exhausting, isn’t it? Let’s stop criticizing parents who miss a birthday or a game. Many of us don’t know that struggle, but when I see your happy, thriving kids, I recognize the incredible work you’re doing. You are truly my hero.
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Summary
In this heartfelt message, a stay-at-home mom expresses admiration for single parents, recognizing their immense challenges in juggling work and parenting without a partner. She emphasizes the importance of support and understanding among all parents, regardless of their choices, and highlights the heroism in the daily struggles of single parents.