From Struggle to Strength: My Journey as a Single Parent By Maaya

You never truly understand the weight of single parenting until you're living it. I’ll be the first to admit, I never gave it much thought—until life made it my reality. It's a journey that reshapesyou in ways you never imagined. The early days were the hardest. I vividly remember sitting on the couch in the middle of the night, crying and whispering “How am I going to do it alone?”. My daughter was still a baby. I was a first-time mum facing challenges neither my daughter nor I deserved in a country 1000’s of miles away from loved ones.

My family and friends have been beyond amazing bending backwards to help - checking in daily, cooking meals and caring for my daughter, so I could get a few hours of rest. What surprised me most was the unexpected support from colleagues, acquaintances, and even strangers. Their support reaffirmed my belief in the goodness of people. Letting go of the life I once envisioned was the hardest. Starting from scratch took a long time, but eventually, a clearer vision of the life I wanted, began to take shape. My goal now is simple: create a future filled with love, peace, and happiness. My daughter has shown me strength I didn’t know I had. Even on the toughest days, working through the night to make ends meet, her smile is a reminder of why I keep going. And today, almost three years later, as I dance with her in our living room, I realize how far we've come-we’re happy! And thriving!

Follow and connect: @with.maaya

My advice to others on this path is to take it one day, or even one hour at a time. Healing isn’t linear- some days you’ll feel invincible, others, like you’ve just gone 10 steps back. Give yourself grace, rest when you need to, and trust your inner strength. Find small joys each day. Whether it’s your child’s laughter, a walk in the park, or a favorite meal, these moments will become your light. My grandmother’s words, “The harder the obstacle, the more beautiful the rewards,” have become my mantra. Single parenting has tested my limits and required a lot of sacrifices - from my career, time, hobbies and even my health. But it’s also brought priceless rewards. It’s taught me the true meaning of love, the beauty in life’s small moments, and the importance of cherishing what truly matters: family, friends, and the memories we create together.

Today, I see this journey as the universe’s redirection. The woman in the mirror I see today is stronger, wiser, and more grounded. This journey has brought growth and pride I never imagined possible. To all the single parents- I see you! I understand your struggles and your triumphs. Sending you love and strength.

Remember, you are stronger than you know.

Follow and connect: @with.maaya