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Do Not Be Discourage For Your Hard Work Will Be Rewarded

GREETINGS, MOTHERS, SISTERS, AND FRIENDS: The quote above is my testimony. I've been working hard to raise my three beautiful daughters by myself, to be the best provider for my family, and to continue climbing this mountain toward victory as a mother, daughter, friend and editor.

 My sisters, I, too, know how hard life can be as a single parent. Yet, I know the reward is near. Yes, there have been plenty of times when I've felt discouraged and my spirit would be drained and feel ragged. Then at those moments, from out of nowhere, a powerful stroke of energy would rejuvenate my soul so that I could keep going. In those moments, I'd feel more empowered and restored just like a faithful soldier of God.

In March of 2007, I began a journey. My sisters, this journey has not been easy. Truly it has been lonely and trying at times. Somehow, I have learned to dig deep down inside my soul to ignite my faith. Just like the air I breathe, my faith reassures me that God has a purpose for my life. Therefore, I continue to walk by faith and believe in God. As a single parent, I've faced many barriers and challenges. But I could always count on the peace of God to see me through. With that having been said, my relationship with God is spiritual. The flip side is that there have been times when I've felt like I've been standing alone and I'd wish for someone in the natural to advise me with many life decisions. A popular proverbial goes: "It takes a village to raise a child." Where is the village, I've asked myself. It's nowhere to be found.

It is a well-known fact that this threatening cycle of single parenthood has roots in slavery.   &nbs p;    &nbs p; A woman slave was left with massive responsibilities of being the only parent. Now the cycle continues to thrive as fathers are locked up in jail, drugs infest our communities, and a great lack in parenting skills abound.

Yes, it is true. We are living in a new and different millennium. Before the judgmental people begin to judge, remember nothing can be rectified over night. To those who are asking how long it will take to stop this cycle, I encourage you to have faith. I can only tell others how difficult this lifestyle can be, yet encourage them that there is light at the end of the tunnel. When all is said and done, your reward will be waiting.

There will be those who believe that Our Voice magazine should not exist. But I want to be the first to tell them that it's needed. The first reason is that, according to the most recent U.S. Census report, there are 3.2 million single African-American mothers.

I hope this issue will be an uplifting experience to those who are doubting themselves, feeling discouraged or who lack direction. I hope Our Voice can be your resource of choice as you seek knowledge on how to be more effective parents amid your role as head of household. Feel free to write or email me with your suggestions and comments.

Remember that Our Voice is your voice.