Mommy Finger, Baby Finger

This Father’s Day, my little one drew pictures for her grandpa (my dad) and wrote a lot of knock-knock jokes for him to read when he opened up the card we mailed him. But, yesterday while we walked around the store and passed the Father’s Day gifts section, she said, “You’re lucky, mom.” It’s been three years since her father completely checked out and disappeared out of our lives.

Each year, I usually have people wish me a Happy Father’s Day. I understand the thoughtfulness, however, it makes me sad. My daughter’s heart breaks to have someone to call “daddy.” I can only do so much to be a great mother. I cannot fill up the space in her heart that longs to have a father. Growing up, I learned how important it was for little girls to have their daddies, because my father and I didn’t develop a strong and healthy relationship until I became an adult. I struggled. Today, I’m grateful of our relationship.

Being a great mother is what I pride myself in knowing how to do everyday, with the help of God. Sure, being a single parent means having a lot to juggle, but I won’t win an award trying to be mom and dad. I am a strong woman who cherishes her femininity and her role as “mommy.” I know that someday God will bring the right man into our lives that won’t be afraid to step up to that role. In the meantime, enjoy your Father’s Day and bless all the wonderful fathers out there!

Love,

Jeannette