I am deeply grateful for her recognizing the gift she continues to give her children by staying the course in her life and loving and raising her children in the way the Holy Spirit led her. This story inspires me. It gives me hope that it will touch many a mom's heart who is redefining success through love and palm kisses for the next generation.

A Single Mother's Reflection on True Success

As the day winds down, I reflect on some heavy emotions I've carried. For years, I've wrestled with success and how it's traditionally defined—degrees, high-paying jobs, picture-perfect families, and material wealth. By those standards, I might not seem to measure up. But when I pause to look at what truly matters, I realize I've built a life filled with love, resilience, and meaningful connections.

I don't have a college degree or a partner to share life's burdens, but I've created a steady, loving home for my children for over 13 years. I've been there for every school event, sports game, and celebration. I've organized birthday parties, volunteered as a room mom, cooked meals, and even hosted a Good Friday service on the sidewalk during difficult times.

No matter how simple, these moments have been infused with love and purpose.

A Child's Gesture: Love Mirrored Back

Tonight, my son reminded me of what really counts. When he noticed our little Christmas tree wasn't up yet, he asked about it, sensing my hesitation. Instead of disappointment, he held my hands, kissed my palms, and told me to keep those kisses for courage—something I first did for him in preschool. Now mirrored back to me, that small act of love showed that he sees and feels the depth of my care. He knows the strength behind the struggles and recognizes the love poured into our lives.

No, I don't have extravagant holidays, luxury cars, or big houses. What I do have is an unshakable bond with my children. They've learned compassion, humility, and unconditional love—not from lectures but from living it daily. They've seen resilience in action and understand the value of gratitude and grace.

I may not have the things society often equates with success, but I have something far more enduring: the love of my children and the knowledge that I've given them a foundation of love and values that will last a lifetime. And that, to me, is success.

This year, my Christmas gift isn't under a tree. It's the realization that love is the most valuable thing we can give or receive—and I've given it abundantly. I am redefining success through love and palm kisses for the next generation.

Thank you, Mom, for passing these gifts to me.

My Thoughts: The Problem, Consequences, and Resolution

The writer of this story was undervalued and overlooked by her family for not meeting traditional markers of success, such as financial stability, societal status, or a partner, despite her deep commitment to raising her children with love and care.

This led her to a deep sense of inadequacy, frustration, and self-doubt, which made her question her choices and accomplishments as a parent.

Through unexpected encouragement from her child, she experiences a shift in perspective, recognizing her love and presence's profound impact.

Today she embraces her unique definition of success, built on unconditional love, resilience, and the values she's instilled in her children, realizing that her journey and choices are equally worthy and meaningful. She is redefining success through love and palm kisses for the next generation.

Without love, support, and encouragement this single mom's road could have had more valleys. But she sought help for her journey.

We have multiple resources to help you love your children through a Biblical lens. You can start by visiting our Clarity Matters page or if you are ready to begin living a transformational life for you and your children, click here to learn more about our Christ-Centered Wholeness course.