GAZELLE MAGAZINE MAY 2018 | Page 12

PUBLISHER'S NOTE I Am Saying No to Mom Guilt A very happy Mother’s Day to our Gazelle moms - our readers! This month, I'm celebrating what an amazing mother I am. Am I allowed to do that? As a single parent raising two teenagers, many times it is hard to feel like I'm doing a great job. I often feel guilty for working late, for not responding promptly to a teacher’s email, or from just being told about all the things I am doing wrong. I live in perpetual mom guilt. If you have raised teens, you know what I am talking about. It is tough being a mother, but even tougher when you are raising children by yourself. But you know what? I am doing it. I got a divorce when my children were 2 and 6. It was a tough time in my life, trying to navigate my new role as a single woman. I was overwhelmed at the thought of raising these two innocent children by myself. Would I make it? Would I be able to manage? What if this? What if that? I was gripped with fear. But like all other women, I did what I needed to do. I rolled up my sleeves, and went all in. What a ride it has been! My children are now 13 and 17. This month, I am letting go of all my insecurities about whether I do it right to give myself a pat on the back and say, “I made it!” I survived that point in time, and I continue to survive. My children are my life. Together, we are making the best of it, and I am proud to be their mommy. This Mother’s Day, take a moment to give yourself a pat on the back. You are doing it, Mom! Cillah Hall Founder and Publisher [email protected] 10 GAZELLE