Yesterday I read a poem right here on Elephant Journal and it inspired me to write my own version.

The poem is titled, “Prayer of the Single Mother.“

Poetry is art that connects with different people for different reasons at different time in their lives.

I honor that no two women’s journeys are the same. However, I believe there is an age old picture being painted of single mothers that is covered in brush strokes of despair and pain. A belief that our lives are somehow worse off because of the turns they have taken. I want to shatter that idea.

I am a single mother. I am connected to a community of single mothers and we paint a different picture.

One that is covered in color, light, laughter, joyful lessons learned, support and a renewed sense of self. Yes, we sometimes fall but we have already proven to ourselves that we can get up even after the biggest of falls. We have walked through the fire, given love to our wounds and marched on gratefully for the lessons our scars have given us.

This poem is dedicated to all the women painting a new picture of single motherhood.

A Single Mother Doesn’t Know Defeat

Another day of kicking ass,
Of waking up with pride.
She drives herself to work,
Smiling at the her she’s left behind.

Another day of dreaming,
Reconnecting with her soul.
She spreads her wings to fly,
Peace of mind is her goal.

Another day of victories,
One foot in front of the other.
She sows the seeds of paradise
From her strength as a mother.

When the moon shines bright inside her lair,
Another day complete,
She holds her children close with care.
A single mother who doesn’t know defeat.

Her heart aches with love and joy,
As she begins to pray.
She walks an unknown path,
Grateful for every single day.

Relephant Reads:

How to Love a Single Mom.

Author: Cassie Faerber

Editor: Renee Jahnke

Image: Big D2012-Flickr