meant to be raised in single-parent homes. Yes, it can be done, but it is not ideal.
Today, having a 6-year-old, school-age child, I struggle with being the only one responsible for helping with homework time and making sure she has multiple perspectives about life. I sometimes find myself resentful at this hand I was dealt. Because of those moments, I have learned to pause and give myself a timeout when life gets overwhelming. Ensuring, my daughter Simone gets to bed on time is imperative to my mental health, so that I can have time to myself.
It’s my time to download the day and plot my next moves to continue to expose her to the world around us. It’s a double-edged sword because it’s also the time that I miss having someone to share in those thoughts and conversations that happen in my head.
BDO: What has helped you cope through the most difficult times in your life?
ED: By far, my village is as strong as they come, my faith in God, therapy and the hugs and kisses from Simone have all been, and continue to be, instrumental in me getting through the tough times. The African proverb says, “it takes a village to raise a child.” Well, it also takes a village to raise a widow and her child. The village has been the glue to help repair my broken heart. My mom steps in on weeknights, weekends and for getaways. She gets mad at me if I don’t ask her first to watch Simone.
My sister-in-law has come up from Peoria to help when I want to travel. And, Simone has spent a week at the end of the summer for the past two years. My friends (and even well-known associates) have offered their babysitting services so that I can have a few moments to myself. It’s quite phenomenal the support I have received and continue to receive even four years later.
My faith in God has kept me sane; knowing and believing there is a greater purpose for this journey. I have not inherited the title of