It is always a special privilege to honor mothers annually on the second Sunday in May designated formerly as Mothering Sunday, but now known as Mother’s Day.
The world is comprised of a variety of mothers include grandmothers, stepmothers, men who are also mothers to their children, married mothers, and single mothers who bear the challenges of raising children without paternal support.
This Mother’s Day, May 12, special acknowledgement is being made to single mothers, as we offer tips on how they can cope with the challenges of motherhood.
While, it requires money to meet the physical needs of your children, for the most part child support cannot be counted on. Therefore, the single mother is forced to work two, and sometimes three, jobs in order to make ends meet. Single mothers are encouraged to seek out opportunities among family and friends to involve their children in some form of work as early as age twelve. That way it will keep them active, build self-confidence and self-reliance.
Mental needs, depending on what the children have gone through or witnessed, may require professional counseling. However, if that is not possible, set aside a specific time per week to spend quality time with the children or child and encourage open dialogue. Listen intently and reaffirm your love and commitment to them. Tell them that no matter what happens in their lives you will always be there for them. When you establish this type of trust in your children they feel obligated to live up to your expectations. Use the power of the word to build them up and encourage positive talk in the household.
The bible played a pivotal role in the lives of most of us who were raised in the Caribbean. It didn’t hurt us, and in fact, it has shaped many of our lives. Therefore, in order to meet your children’s spiritual needs, use God’s word to build a solid foundation in raising your children. Proverbs 22:6 ‘Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old he will not depart from it.’
| Father: Society promotes a ‘broken home’ theory making it seem normal when children grow up in a home without a father. Let us not feed into this, assure your children that you will provide a balanced life for them. If you have boys and there is no relationship with the father, find a positive male role model in the family that can be trusted. However, if you prefer to do this on your own, be sure to show up at the games and become your children’s biggest cheerleader. |
Friend: Become your children’s best friend and listen to what they have to say. You should be the first person they come to when they need to talk to someone. Help them discover their God-given talent and work with them on making a contribution to humanity, no matter the age. Promote healthy competitions in the family and instill in a winning mentality.
Role Model: As parents if we should exhibit the fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance – you will become your children’s role model for life.
Happy Mother’s Day to all you single mothers. Always remember, our children are our greatest investment.
