Since taking on the role of Mr. Mom, I have by way of an occupational hazard adopted many motherly instincts and emotions. It's funny how becoming a single dad changes you in ways you would've never thought possible. Don't get me wrong, I'm still a man and my testosterone levels haven't changed at all. However, I find myself these days happier in female company (moms of course) discussing the kids, learning about grocery deals, learning recipes, learning from different mom's point of views on parenting, and the like instead of going out with the guys. I still love and need my hang time with the guys away from the kids, but in many ways...Mrs. Doubtfire has a whole new meaning to the realities that HIT you when you become a single dad.
When you're going through a divorce, it's no fun at all. It's very sad and for me it's like mourning the death of a person that you loved the most on this Earth. When my children's mother suddenly left us, it sent me into shock and awe. I'm sure that many of you single parents out there can relate. It's an emotional roller coaster that I don't wish upon anybody. All of a sudden, you are thrust into playing both roles: Mom and Dad. I quickly learned why God put more neurons in women's brains then men. Women are naturally better multi-taskers then men because of this fact. Mom's are typically better at nurturing and caring for children than Dads. I have much more respect for single parents now than I used to because I am living it now. Life would be much easier if I had 8 arms like Dr. Octopus from the Spiderman movie. I could change Madison's diaper, restrain Tyler's naked booty from running outside (he loves to be naked at this point in time as he's going through the potty training process) and play catch with CJ all at the same time! All in all, I think that other single parents would agree with me when I say we have the hardest job in the world!
I never thought I would end up as a single parent...who does? It seems that there are more single mom's out there as well than single dads. You should see the looks on peoples faces, particularly women, when I'm out and about at the grocery store with the all the kids and the cashier finally asks (because she's seen me with the kids sooo many times), "How come you're always in here with the kids?" I humbly reply, "That's because this man is a single dad!" The cashier sheeply replied, "Wow! Well, I commend you on what you're doing cuz most men in the world wouldn't."
Yes, there are single dad's out there and I'm one of them. I can't imagine being without my kids! My kids are like air and I need air to breathe. I would die inside without them and it's hard for me to fathom any parent giving up on their kids. My kids inspire me and keep me going. They are the best gifts in the world sent by God. I heard something in Church this morning that is so true: "The greatest legacy that we can leave for our children is our love for God." This quote resounded with me like loud church bells going off because it just helps me focus on what my purpose is in life. It's easy to get distracted by all the challenges of parenting, paying bills, taking kids to Dr. appts., going on kid playdates, grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, helping kids with homework, kids jumping on my back, kids peeing in places they shouldn't be, etc. All those things are a part of life, but the greatest gift we could give to our kids is our love for God, our will to never give up on our faith, and our daily example of living the Christian life. I want to see my kids in Heaven one day. I can only hope that through all my imperfections, my kids will see a daddy that loves them and loves God more than anything. I pray that my legacy will live on in my kids and that one day, we will all hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
I thank God for all of my good friends who have helped me over the last year! I also have some of the best neighbors in the world! I could literally write a book about the trials and tribulations that I went through over the last year and how instrumental my friends were in helping me get through it. They still help me and I'm indebted to them for their love and friendship! It's always good to take a step back and reflect. It's always good to breathe and take one day at a time. Lastly, it's always good to know that you're not alone.
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