This week, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. Like many parents, I find myself grappling with the implications of this announcement, worried about its potential impact on my loved ones. I’m caught between the need to be prepared—stocking up on disinfectants and essentials—but not succumbing to the panic that drives others to hoard supplies.
I, however, am not just any parent. I am a solo parent and a young widow, carrying the weight of grief and the reality that life can change in an instant. I know firsthand that tragedies can strike unexpectedly, that the idea of a “happily ever after” is not guaranteed no matter how much we may wish for it.
Every day, I balance the scale of being cautious and being overwhelmed, all while watching the news and receiving alerts without a partner to share my concerns. I have no one to reassure me that I might be overreacting or to promise that we’ll be okay, regardless of what happens. My fear escalates when I think about what would happen if I were to fall ill—who would take care of my children, who would fetch groceries, and who would keep the household running smoothly? And, even if we remain healthy, how will I manage to maintain my sanity in isolation without another adult’s presence?
As a solo parent facing a global crisis, I often feel like I’m standing guard over my two children, trying to shield them from an overwhelming tide of uncertainty. The weight of responsibility feels heavier when I consider everything that is at stake, especially without my husband by my side. The challenges seem magnified, and I often feel too small to protect them in a world that feels on the brink of chaos.
Yet, I refuse to let this fear dictate my approach to single parenthood. It’s crucial to acknowledge the anxiety and the uncertainties but also to breathe and trust in my abilities as a parent. I believe my children are capable of handling emergencies, or at the very least, they won’t burn the house down in my absence. I trust that my preparations will serve us well; if I become unwell, I have contingency plans in place for their care. We have enough supplies to sustain us through tough times, and I’ve ensured that our streaming services are paid for—because let’s face it, entertainment is essential when you’re stuck at home.
This isn’t a plea for sympathy towards solo parents or young widows. Every family, regardless of structure, faces their own unique challenges and anxieties during this unprecedented time. We are all navigating a sea of uncertainty while trying to protect those we love.
In moments of helplessness, as we face the realities of a global pandemic, let’s remind ourselves that we are all doing our best. Every family has a story that is uniquely its own, and we could all benefit from a bit more empathy and understanding toward one another. We may feel isolated, but we are not alone in this journey.
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In summary, single parenting during a pandemic presents unique fears and challenges, but with preparation, trust, and compassion, we can navigate these trying times together.