Dear Single Mom,
I’ve been thinking about you a lot this week. As Mother’s Day approached, memories of your struggles and triumphs came to mind. I understand that this day can be bittersweet for you. Having been a single mom for nearly five years myself, I relate deeply to your experiences. My friend Sarah faced similar challenges for seven years, and my own mother has been a single parent for most of her life, raising four children on her own.
Mother’s Day often feels awkward for single moms. Without a partner to spoil you, encourage your children to let you sleep in, or surprise you with breakfast in bed, the day can feel unfair. You deserve all the pampering and affection just like any other mom.
You might even feel a sense of sadness for your child, wishing they had someone to help them create that perfect gift for you. You may worry that your sons won’t learn how to care for their future partners or that your daughters won’t know how to accept love from their husbands. It’s painful to experience guilt and sorrow on a day meant for celebrating you.
Perhaps you feel anger, hurt, or even a sense of exclusion. Maybe you have a supportive circle of friends and family that you cherish, but when the day ends, it’s still just you taking care of everything. You could be like my mom, who has spent several Mother’s Days with little ones who couldn’t quite grasp the day’s significance, making it feel like any other day.
To all the single moms out there, here’s what I want you to know: The hardest part of being a single parent, for me, was the immense weight of responsibility. It was all on my shoulders—providing, nurturing, teaching, and disciplining. It can feel overwhelming.
So, on this Mother’s Day, I want to gently remind you that you are not alone. Whether you have no help at all, or if you’ve been a widow since your child was born, or if their father is absent, you are not alone.
This Mother’s Day, I sincerely hope you find some time to rest. I hope you receive a heartfelt handmade card or craft from school. I hope those who care for you recognize your efforts and shower you with love. I wish for your children to give you extra hugs, sweet snuggles, and plenty of smiles.
Indulge yourself—maybe see a movie or treat yourself to a manicure. It’s okay to bring the kids along; the other patrons will understand, and if they don’t, that’s their issue—it’s your day after all. If nothing else, enjoy meals that you love (no more chicken fingers) and bake your own cake, letting the kids decorate it (but maybe don’t leave them alone with the sprinkles!).
And even if none of this unfolds, I hope you hear me when I say: You are a mother. You are incredibly special, important, and strong. I am celebrating you this weekend. There is no one else like you in your child’s life. You can do this. You will do this.
Happy Mother’s Day.
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In summary, Mother’s Day can be a complex and emotional time for single moms. However, it’s also a day to recognize your strength, celebrate your unique role, and take a moment for yourself.