06 Jun Single Mama’s Favorite “Quotes.”

I came across a quote the other day that really rung true for me.  I’m always amazed by the power that words can have – they can inspire us, make us stop and think about our lives, make us break out into uncontrollable laughter and sometimes even make us cry.

My sister has always been someone who loves quotes and words of wisdom.  In fact I always playfully tease her about the “wise words” and quotes that she leaves on her answering machine prior to asking the caller to leave a message.  But truthfully speaking, I love hearing or reading a meaningful or funny quote – one with which I connect – one which completely relates to my life.

So, I decided to share some of my favorite ones and explain why I love them so much.

“For every wound there is a scar, and every scar tells a story.  A story that says, I survived.”  -Fr. Craig Scott

This quote is one that I first read soon after becoming a single mama.  I remember coming across it and truly feeling as though it perfectly described my life.  Being left by a spouse is a frightening and traumatic experience.  You are left with wounds and scars which are invisible to others, but deeply felt.  I truly believe that I have survived my experience with dignity, humor and strength.  I feel proud and strong.

“When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.” -Franklin D. Roosevelt

How perfect is this quote!  It relates to my life as a single mom.  The non-stop schedules, child-care and routines can cause lots of stress and exhaustion on a daily basis.  I have to admit that when I get tired my patience can wear thin.  But then I try to take a deep breath and plant my feet on the ground and find a knot in the rope that I can hang on to.  And when I do lose my patience, I try very hard to forgive myself and to remember that I am only human.  After all, nobody is perfect, right?

“Always kiss your children goodnight, even if they are already asleep.” -H. Jackson Brown Jr.

I am blessed to have two beautiful daughters.  They amaze me each and every day, and make me very proud to be able to call myself their mother.  Each night, after the regular “goodnight kisses”, I always check in on them before I go to sleep and give them one extra kiss.  It’s one of those nighttime rituals which makes my day feel complete.

“It’s not what we have in our life, but who we have in our life that counts.” -J.M. Laurence

This quote rings true on every level.  I feel so grateful for the family and friends that I am so very fortunate to have in my life. I am equally grateful for those people who are not in my life.  It’s as simple as that.

“I’m always disappointed when a liar’s pants don’t actually catch on fire.” -Author unknown

Lying to me is awful, and gross.  I love this quote. It makes me smile.  Enough said.

“True friends are the ones that have nice things to say about you, even behind your back.” -Unknown

There is nothing like a true, loyal, loving friend, and I am very lucky to have wonderful friends in my life.  For me, my friends are an extension of my family.  I truly cherish the friendships that I have.

“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade, or a LEMON MOJITO!” -sjm

This one is all mine.  It’s a little reminder to always make the best out of what you are given. It is easier, in my opinion, to turn a miserable situation into a positive one. I am truly not a fan of stewing in the misery.  It is perfectly fine to have mini pity-parties every so often, but I prefer to stand tall and choose happiness and sweetness over sour times.

So, those are some of my favorite quotes.  There are so many others that I love, but I wanted to give you a glimpse of some of the ones that I truly connect to.  I’d love to know the quotes that you hold near and dear to your hearts.

Keep calm and Quote On!

Xox,

Susan