credit: Jari Schroderus

Teenage motherhood can be daunting. The young mother looked down at her newborn and whispered through her tears, " You are my baby and I will always love you and take good care of you."

There are thousands of girls every year who find their lives changed forever and faced with monumental decisions about how to go forward with a child, alone. They are forced to grow up fast and face the reality of life in a way they wouldn't have for years.

Not all, but many, decide to finish school, get a job ,and determine to be the best mother they could possibly be. Even though they are forced by financial need to receive support from their family, they do not relinquish their rights or responsibilities as mothers.

One such young woman, with a two year old son, never expected to meet someone who would be willing to start a marriage raising another man's child. She never thought it possible that a great guy, with a good job and a good family, would consider being with someone in her situation.

Accepting that she would probably remain single for some time, she was free to be herself, not excessively needy or depressed. She was free to work hard, to keep focused and present herself to the world as the bright, charming , confident girl she was. She set out to prove to her parents, her teachers, her friends, and mostly herself, that her life would be exemplary, and that she would make a good mother for her son.

Fortunately, her story has a happy ending. She did grow into a mature, thoughtful woman and a wonderful mother. Not only that, she also found that great guy. He not only fell in love with her but he fell in love with her baby boy as well. After several years of marriage, he continues to be a great husband and father. So, it can happen.

If you are struggling at the moment, I encourage you to believe in yourself and stand tall. Your child needs the best you that you can be, and that is a person who has forgiven herself for past mistakes and looks to the future with hope.

Standing together with all moms,

The Schoolmarm