Itz Holistically Wholesome

I had mentioned that this platform was a bit of everything lifestyle, right? Today I want to share an experience that I had recently, but first, let me say that for the first time, I understand what some men have been saying about not getting enough recognition for the good deeds that they are doing concerning their families and children. As a society, we are accustomed to seeing mothers caring for the home and children while the dad works or is not in the picture. However, some men are both fathers and mothers to their children, and yes, the mothers are very much alive and well. I have had the privilege of knowing several men who had to play the role of both mom and dad in their children’s life because, believe it or not, not all women are mothers or have or have an interest in stepping up to their role. My recent encounter with another one of those men inspired me to write this post.

I ran late dropping my son off at summer camp a day ago. My baby girl had woken up early and did not wish to have me put her down, making it incredibly hard for us to leave the house on time. Additionally, my son is as slow as a tortoise and especially takes a long time to eat. Anyways, while heading unto the school compound with my daughter in my arms and holding onto my son’s hand, I saw a father and his daughter rushing in as well. From the little girl’s appearance, she screamed my daddy got me dressed for summer camp today., not that that matters because she was clean and delighted. As they walked past us, he said a cheerful hello and commented, “You are running late too,” I responded tough morning.

We dropped our kids off, and while exiting the building and heading back to our cars, He said, “I wish I had a wife like you.” I thought the comment was unusual since he doesn’t know me; I am just some woman dropping her kid off at summer camp. I, however, responded with a pleasant smile. He then proceeded to say that it is hard for him because his wife wants nothing to do with anything but herself, and as a result, he has to be doing everything for his little girl. He said that he changed his job so that he could only work three nights to be there for his daughter. He cooks, cleans, and takes care of her every need. He was not complaining because I could see how much he cared for his daughter, but he also saw where his little girl needed her mother. He also said that his biggest problem is that his daughter is now five years old and needs her privacy, but he still has to help her with bath time. I felt compassion towards him, and I am sure many of us can relate if we ever had to do it all by ourselves or with little or no help. I could only commend him for his great work with his daughter and encourage him to keep doing his best because she would appreciate it. As we walked in separate directions, I noticed that he wiped his eye as if wiping away a tear.

Unfortunately, it is not just men who are not there to support their children and spouses; some women are also like that. Not every woman is an excellent mother and is out there being all they can be for their children. We might be surprised by the number if we look into it. Please note that purpose of this post is not to bash anyone but to bring awareness that there are men out there who are mothering their children because mommy does not want to help to do it. And while they do not need a badge of honor for caring for their children, a little recognition will be encouraging.