You were there too.

It broke my heart to hear about several young single mothers choosing not to return to church because someone has said something to deter them from coming back. I personally spoke with one young lady and asked her to please let me know who has spoken against her so I can help straighten this out quickly. Not sure if it was embarrassment on her part, she declined to share, quietly smiled and gave me a hug.

I was a young single mother, trying to make ends meet, learning how to take care of an infant and myself. Though living at home with my parents and siblings, it still wasn’t easy and I was 20! When the baby cried at night, I got up. When the baby was hungry, I prepared the food. When the baby was sick, I stayed up and was hoping to give the right amount of medicine. There were several times that I would sit and cry wondering what am I doing. As much as you don’t want to admit, you were there too.

I too thought about hiding from every one and staying to myself. Feeling alone and ashamed of being a single mother. I didn’t want to be another statistic. Not wanting anyone to say anything negative to me or my child. Didn’t want to burden my family or best friends with anything regarding my little one. I knew there were whispers and really didn’t want to hear them for myself. I would have never thought about speaking up for myself, just sit quietly and hope it all passes.

It was my parents who pressed upon me to stay strong, just by saying “keep your head up” or “it’s going to be alright”. My family was my strength because they helped me when I needed and prayed for me without hesitation. My best friends were themselves, my safe place, my laughter, my true circle. It was during this time that I realized God didn’t make a mistake. God was creating a stronger me. I had to because there was this little person looking to me for their every need. Once again you were there too.

These young mothers need encouragement and support. Don’t block your blessing because you hindered someone else from receiving theirs. It’s not for you nor I to judge anyone. Help them succeed and not be afraid. The world can be cruel and if they see cruelty in God’s house, then they may never know about God’s grace and mercy. This single mother made it by God’s grace and mercy.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue. Proverbs 18;21 Speak blessings not curses!

To see my children grown with their own little ones is a beautiful thing. A blessed cycle of life.

Be Kept!