A Single Mom's Letter To Her Fatherless Son: 'I Did Not Raise You Alone'

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Dearest Asher,

I am writing this as I watch you sleep and I can't help but notice what seems to be a void beside us. In the usual family with one child, there would be three, but for us it's just you and me.

Still I want you to know that regardless the number, a family simply means being with people who love and support you no matter what.

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My journey as your only parent was never easy. I struggled from the day I told your biological father about you, and I stumble once in a while even until now, but I am proud to tell you that for once I never felt that I was doing it alone.

I did not raise you alone. I want you to remember that we were surrounded by our loved ones, a village of parents and a community of allies who made sure I feel loved, safe and celebrated.

I want you to remember all the people who contributed on guiding me when I didn't know what to do or when I have questions to ask.

I want you to remember that even though some of these people we do not know personally, they were essential to see to it that you grow up happily.

I want you to remember your mother had a safe space and I hope you find yours too when you grow up.

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A lot of people contributed for you to be well and healthy, to feel wanted and admired and most importantly, for you to be happy.

I know it sounds cliché but we won't be where we are now if it weren't for them. I hope one day you will be able to understand the choices I made for us.

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My son, we are far from perfect and we might never be the perfect family, moreover, I am not sure if or when we will be "complete" but what I am sure of is that you will always have me, your own family, and the family I met through Smart Parenting.

I love you.

Your Naynay

Genina Domingo is part of Smart Parenting Mom Squad and a finalist of the My Smart Parenting Story contest in 2021. Read her story here.

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