This month’s theme is about rising above the challenges of being a single parent, to raise strong, happy, independent girls who believe they can be anything they dream they can be.

I did it alone for many years (here’s a pic of me beaming with pride at one of my eldest daughter’s many school awards), but I had lots of support from family and friends.  Others are not so lucky, but still raise amazing, beautiful, confident daughters who achieve great things.

Here are some single parents I’ve known:

My aunt, who raised her daughter with no financial support, worked hard to ensure that my cousin wanted for nothing and enjoyed a life full of possibility.  Last week, my family attended my cousin’s convocation from U of T.  My aunt raised a Medical Doctor.

My friend who raised three beautiful children on her own, while working full-time and attending school to better her life and those of her children.  At the end of her studies, she became a Chartered Accountant and is Treasurer at an elite private school today, and her children are thriving.

My grandmother, who raised three amazing children, while waiting tables at a restaurant.  The children that started out on food stamps ended up living happy, successful lives, valuing their mother’s hard work, working hard themselves, to enjoy successful, flourishing careers.

Think about the single parents you’ve known and share what was inspirational to you about them.