I am also an unwed mother. I became pregnant at 20 and was left by my partner. My daughter is now 8, and I don’t think I can remember anytime where people were anything but compassionate and embracing of my tiny broken family.
I think a lot of people don’t know how to act toward me, because I am a single parent. I sometimes feel isolated at school functions, but I don’t think it’s because of any judgementalism from other parents. I just think that they are more comfortable relating with fellow married-with-children couples.
As an unwed mother though, knowing how difficult it is to raise a child, and knowing how extremely dedicated one must be to the child- I can say that I do feel some sadness when I hear of another unwed couple having a baby. And I do pray that the couple chooses to allow their baby to be adopted.
I know that that may seem hypocritical to many, that I would keep my child, but pray that others offer theirs up for adoption. But I know now how important 2 married parents are to raising children- I didn’t realize the importance then.
We as parents, have the toughest and most important job there is. It hurts me to see some young teenager being flippant about their child and their future. I pray that the teenage and young parents who do choose to keep their children- understand the sacrifice and selflessness needed to parent effectively, and change their lifestyles accordingly.
All of that said, I am ever compassionate to my fellow single parents. I know the road.
**Lord, grant me
Time enough
to do all the chores, join in the games, help with the lessons, and say the night prayers, and still have a few moments left over for me.
Energy enough
to be bread-baker and breadwinner, knee-patcher and peacemaker, ballplayer and bill juggler.
Hands enough
to wipe away the tears, to reach out when I’m needed, to hug and to hold, to tickle and touch.
Heart enough
to share and to care, to listen and to understand, and to make a loving home for my family.**
