My Experience as a Single Mom
Growing up in a small, rural community as a child, I had no exposure to divorce. I didn’t even know anyone that came from a split home until grade seven. Divorce was foreign – something we only saw in movies and on sitcoms. I remember a distinct, negative stigma attached to single moms growing up. Let’s be clear, that stigma was wrong.
Never in my life did I ever expect to be a divorcee, and a single mom. It certainly wasn’t the happily ever after I had dreamed of growing up.
Starting a new chapter
When first separated, I remember feeling alone and embarrassed. I didn’t know who to talk to or who I could trust. Then one-by-one, other single moms started reaching out and connecting with me. I discovered a new community of single moms. We were threaded together, like a beautiful patchwork quilt. Pieces of cloth, considered rags, mended with care, little by little until a strong, beautiful new blanket emerged. This extraordinary, new community of single moms rode the single parenting roller coaster with me.
I’m a good mom. I have been fortunate enough to be able to provide my daughter and me with a lifestyle that is comfortable, safe, and balanced. I’ve accomplished things I didn’t know I was capable of, all on my own. Now that I’ve worn this ‘single-mom hat’ for seven years, it’s something I wear with pride. It’s like a badge of honor. I preach the strength of single moms, loud and proud.
Our fresh start
I’ve come to a crossroads in my life.
I pack up the home I bought and paid for myself, a home in which I was married, divorced, raised my daughter, and which saw all of the joys and struggles along the way. I realize I’m about to shed this skin of being a single mom, which I’ve become so comfortable and happy in.
As excited as I am to start my new life, in our new home, as a new family with my partner whom I love and trust, I can’t help but mourn the loss of independence and pride of being a single mom.
Janet Smith is a proud single-mom of one daughter and a marketing professional who is grateful for her rural roots in the London area. She is a big believer in connecting with people through laughter and honesty.
Janet Smith is a proud mom of one daughter and a marketing professional who is grateful for her rural roots in the London area. Follow Janet’s funny and honest journey at IG & TT | @re.marketable.janet or FB | @janetsiddallsmith
