Ed’s Letter
Last year, I dropped the ball, parenting wise. I was too busy chasing my #CareerGoals to realise that my sons were battling at school and needed their mom. I can’t turn back the hands of time, but I can make a concerted effort to do things differently in 2019, for their sake and, possibly, my sanity. The thing is that children grow, and if you don’t pause and actually look them in the eyes for a moment, you’ll blink and they’ll be off to varsity or to start their own lives and families. You would have missed important milestones, school concerts and birthdays, and you’ll be left alone without a single memory of your kids to treasure.
I now drop them off at school every morning (or as often as I can when I’m not travelling). I’ve acknowledged that I need more support when it comes to their homework, too (I’m literally too exhausted to even think when I get home; I just want to spend time with my boys and enjoy my home). So, I’ve enrolled them in aftercare for homework support. I also don’t immediately open my laptop the minute I walk into the house. In fact, I’m trying my best to not actually work at all when I’m home. These are some of the small changes that I’ve made to be a better mom.
As mothers, we often have to make many sacrifices to ensure that our children are safe and provided for. This month, our Special Report features women who gave birth and are raising their children behind bars. I can’t imagine how it must feel to let your child go, to be raised by foster parents or relatives. The separation anxiety alone makes me teary.
We also look at the other end of the spectrum – women who help expectant moms give birth, ob-gyns as well as midwives. These women are specialists in their fields and have the power to assist in bringing new life into the world.
On a lighter note, we are officially approaching winter – you’ve probably started unpacking the coats and knitwear hidden at the back of your closet. Our fashion and beauty editors have put together the hottest winter guide, jam-packed with must-haves to update your style.
To all the moms, aunts, grandmothers, godmothers and mentors — have a happy Mother’s Day!