Over five years ago, when I plunged head-first into the deep and unknown sea of single motherhood, I had no one to talk to. I know no one who was in the same boat at the time. Everything was foreign. Scary and sadly lacking support.
Then as life unfolded, I began to make friends with these ‘unseen’ forces of women who not only managed to survive divorce but thrive! It all started when I first got invited to attend the launching of the single mom book back in 2012.
In 2014 Single Moms Indonesia was born on September 8, 2014. Within one year, our little support group has grown to 65 members strong. Some member resides outside of Jakarta.
We have regular gatherings now. Friendships grow deeply and blossom outside the world wide web. These women share their stories, journeys, battles, and victories openly in a safe environment where they will not be judged. Living in a country that still has negativity towards single moms, it is comforting to know that there is a place where we do not fear being judged or labeled. Most importantly, to know that we are not alone…
These women came into the group from all walks of life. Yet they put all differences aside and lend each other virtual shoulders to lean on, to cry on, and the bond grows thicker. We cheered for each other, allowing each other to cry. Still, most of all, the most beautiful aspect of SMI is how these ladies go out of their way to remind each other of what a wonderful, perfectly created human being we truly are, no matter how many adversities we must face.
Some of our members are still in the early stages of separation, pregnancy, and court proceedings. Thus, we pledged to have a safe place where their privacy is highly guarded. And some have ‘graduated’ and have come a long way in their journey of being a single mother, more mature and wisely sharing their tips and encouraging words for those in the early stages.
It took me over a week to write calmly about SMI without getting too emotional.
Yes, our little group is only a year old. There is plenty of room for us to grow, to expand. We have a lot of things planned for.
To witness the growth of this group, to be part of the flourishing of souls…I couldn’t be more grateful. I am inspired daily! Honestly, I am humbled to be amongst these women. Through their journey, I am learning too. Through their victories, I got an abundance of blissful feelings.
A year ago today, Single Moms Indonesia was created. Out of sheer longing to have a support group for Indonesian women. A group where the negative stigma is not found. Where single mothers, by choice, will not be judged. We wanted a safe haven.
We have only just begun…
Happy 1st Anniversary Single Moms Indonesia
Women should support each other. Hope your group will grow as a place for single moms to move on comfortably for better future.
Happy first anniversary SMI. All the best:-)
glad that you are surrounded by the good hands..
I think its awesome to find something to connect over and I’m sure in Indonesia it can be difficult for the divorced mother. Having a support system I’m sure makes all the difference and it sounds like an awesome community of ladies has developed around it.
Maureen. I don’t even have kids yet, but that is an amazing initiative! I’m so glad that you have managed to find and helped to provide a support network for single mums. Happy anniversary and I truly hope that your group will be a long-lived.
Emotional is good. It just means your heart is in it. 🙂
That is so great that you created your own Mommy group! It’s so much better to have someone to talk to who truly understands what you’re going through.
it is always great to have a support team. i think its great that you created a mommy group.
Have a support network is so important!!