Being a single Dad

Being a single dad is a full-time job on its own. I love my 5 kids with all my heart and would do anything for them. With that said, let me elaborate a bit; I would protect, love unconditionally, provide a roof over their heads, put clothes on their back, give toys to play with, and most of all – any educational tools they need available. Am I a perfect Dad? Nope. Only my Dad is perfect. I find myself having to take a step back to analyze my parenting. I always want to do the best that I can, for the kids’ sake. I think of things I wish I could do better, yet I know that no matter what it won’t always happen exactly the way I want. I acknowledge that being a single Dad of 5 won’t allow me to go on every field trip or attend every concert. I know this because I work 3 jobs, it makes attending everything extremely challenging. I have to make sacrifices in order to do anything. For example, one thing I currently sacrifice is sleep. I don’t get much, I do this so I am able to attend more functions for and with my kids. I work 2^nd and 3^rd shifts mixed with a 1^st shift mixed in throughout a typical week. I’ll tell ya, working nights is not a glorious thing. I sometimes have to miss programs and recitals when I am scheduled for work. Some would say, “You know, you should just take those nights off work.” Well, I would love to do that except the time I already take off work is to spend as much quality time with my kids as possible. Many criticize single Dads for working so much and skipping functions. That seems like a double standard. If a single mom happened to work the same shift and missed the same events it would be okay because she is supporting herself and her children. Both single moms and single dads often have the same challenges. I work hard to support myself and my children. Sadly, I’m aware there are many single fathers out there that don’t care at all. Not me, I care and am doing everything I can to make it work. So, I may have to sacrifice going to a concert, field trip, or program if that means I keep food on the table & roof over their heads. So to you naysayers, until you live a day in my shoes, back off. My guess is you couldn't handle it anyway!

 

Don’t judge too quickly. If you are going to judge, be sure you have all the facts first. Perception is not reality, perception is assuming.