A Single Mother Speaks

Each weekday morning, 6:15, we have to hit the floor. We dress, have breakfast, feed the pets, and then we're out the door. When I return from work each day, there's housework to be done; so I zoom into clean-up mode. Now watch me grab and run. About five thirty, kids want food, so I whip up a meal. Then both kids do their list of chores; that’s part of our firm deal. About six thirty, both need help with homework. We must deal with common core curriculum! By eight o’clock I feel so frustrated that I could scream; my tension’s at the max. When kids are fast asleep, at last I’ll flop down and relax for one whole hour, watch TV, and put up my tired feet. Before I go to bed, I’ll make the house look nice and neat. The one who should be sharing life’s responsibilities deserted us. He said, “With you, I can’t do as I please”! I pray for strength and guidance as I raise my girl and boy and for the wayward father who will never share my joy. Date: October 31, 2019 Contest Title: Anything You Want Poetry Contest Sponsor: Chantelle Anne Cooke