There is an alarming number of single moms raising their children alone. Many of them are doing this without any kind of financial support. They are working, caring for their children and managing all of their responsibilities alone. Can you imagine what a day in their shoes feels like?
You probably work in a company, attend a church service or school where you know several of these single moms. They will never admit it, but the road is hard. Even if the finances work themselves out, there is an emotional drain that occurs when you are the main source of emotional support for your children. It is a hard and harrowing road. I'm asking each of you to consider doing something special for one of these single moms. Consider leaving her a gift card from anonymous. Think about leaving an encouraging note or a cooked dinner for her to take home. If she reports to you, consider give her an extra day off or two. (Same message for the single dads- it is rough no matter the gender). Invite a single parent to your house for a home cooked dinner (tell them to bring the kids).
These moms (and single dads) are raising the children that will run our schools, our government and our world. They are our future. We turn our heads and pretend that we don't really see them. We go through our days unknowingly refusing to admit to ourselves the dire struggles that they may be facing. Open up your eyes. Dare to see the truth hidden in their eyes. Dare to care.
I know my readers have hearts of gold. I know you are a caring bunch. Reach out and touch a life close to you.
Many of you know that I struggled as a single mom for years. One year, I got up on Christmas morning and headed to the tree. It was (another) very tight year financially. I hadn't been able to buy much at all for Heather. I was dreading Christmas morning. My neighbors had somehow broke into the house and filled my tree with presents. 'Santa' had visited my house. Someone made our morning!
I tear up thinking about how much hope I felt and how much resilience I received from that blessing. Bless someone around you this year. They will remember it always. Heather was four years old that Christmas- I'm talking to you today about an event that still moves me to tears that happened 18 years ago.
Go bless someone around you this season. It will change their perspective and have a positive impact on your life and theirs.
