Love Poem: Single Parenthood
Constance Gilmore Avatar
Written by: Constance Gilmore

Single Parenthood

From the moment I knew of her life
I knew I would be a single mother.
I would be alone in raising her
With no real help from the other
Fearful and sad, I didn’t think I was able;
I wasn’t ready to do this as one
Fighting a battle to show I’m worthy
Against a society ready to shun
Here it is, another single Black mother
With yet another absentee Black father
The statistics are so common now
Why does society even bother?
Well I will say that although it is hard
It was the best situation for us
I didn’t want to bring her into this world
With parents that only argue and fuss
Separating from her dad, I was able to provide
An atmosphere where she only knows love
She smiles, laughs, and is always so happy
And that is something that I am very proud of
Food, clothes, shelter, and toys
My child has never had to go without
So if you think single parents cannot provide
Use my example to erase all doubt
With absolutely no support from her dad
I have had to struggle tremendously hard
Sometimes, I feel I’ve let her down
That not having her dad will leave her scarred
However, I take pride in being the best I can be
I want to be a good example to her
Instilling morals and values to make her well-rounded
So she can be confident and self-assured.
Take it from me, this single parenthood
Definitely has ups and downs for sure
But single parents do what some people can’t
So take pride in what you have to endure.