DEAR ABBY:

Single mom’s frustrations, pain boil to the surface.

Dear Abby:

About 20 months ago, after I found out I was pregnant, I was abandoned by the father of my child. My mother had passed away a month before. So I was grieving, shocked to discover I was pregnant and devastated when I was left for another woman. I went through my pregnancy alone, gave birth alone and am now a single mother.

While my child and I are blessed — I have a good job, Momma left me some money that has helped me buy a home, and my friends are supportive — my heart is broken.

My son’s father pays child support, but his priority is the woman he left us for. Everyone tells me I need to be the bigger person, accept the situation and give my son a chance to know his father. I understand all of that, but I am so angry. I feel rejected and debased. I cry all the time. I try to keep a positive face for my son, but sometimes I break down. My son’s father and his lady make fun of me and flaunt how happy they are together while I am alone raising my child. The woman enjoys pointing out how hard I have it and how alone I am.

My son is my joy and I love him dearly, but why am I not allowed to be angry at his father and that woman? Why must I be the one who accepts the hurt and difficulty, while my son’s father and his lady have their cake and eat it, too? I would really appreciate your thoughts. Hurt Momma in the East

Dear Hurt Momma:

While you have every right to be angry, has it occurred to you that you may not only be grieving for your mother, but pos- sibly be suffering from postpartum depression as well? Discuss this with your doctor and ask to have your hormone levels checked. It might also benefit you to join a grief support group.

Your ex-boyfriend and his “lady” may appear to have their cake and eat it, too, but it’s not true. They have each other, and both of them appear to be miserable people. For the sake of yourself and your son, please stop allowing them to make you miserable, too. You have your beautiful child, and endless possibilities lie ahead if you will open yourself to them. If necessary, find a licensed therapist to help you let go of the negative and get your priorities straight again. Once you succeed in doing this, you’ll be fine.