Regardless of the reason for being a single mother... there is no one that can suggest that what these women do on a daily basis for their children should not be praised.
My dad was a military man and passed away when I was eleven. I don't remember a time when I was ever used to coming home from school to Mommy and Daddy... Mommy was always alone in the kitchen, with dinner half done and my favorite cartoon on the television waiting for me.
I'm not sure how women, the people that have struggled to be equal to the "oh so powerful" man, can do a job made for two all by themselves, but let me tell you... I've never been more proud to say I was raised by a single mother. Of course, I have missed my father immensely throughout the years... but that does not take away from the incredible years my mom has given me.
Sacrifice after sacrifice, she has done everything in her power to make sure that my brothers and I have lived happy, healthy, successful lives. She has put us before her every time without question. A yearly trip to Disney World just to see the smiles on our faces even though I'm sure that it was more than hell for her every time. A birthday party every year, each one surpassing the one from the year before. Giving us each the option to choose our own career path, and supporting it no matter how much she agrees with the decision that we have made. Endless amounts of ice cream from the truck that makes his rounds every day… Even if it meant taking quarters out of the jar next to the sink.
Mothers have a bond with their children that no one understands until they become one. I myself wouldn't know this firsthand… but the relationship I have with my mother assures me that this is true. Your mom is the one you run to when things don't go right. She welcomes you with open arms, long lectures of advice, and endless amounts of shoulders to cry on.
I'm 110% positive that I would not be the woman I am today if I was not raised by a single mother, and just so everyone is clear I am damn proud of the woman I am.
So to you, single mothers everywhere, know that you are praised for everything you've done for your children. Thank You.