I just have to share this picture of my son because it’s not just a snapshot—it’s a window into the kind of young man he is, and I’m bursting with pride. The other day, I was struggling with a pot lid that refused to cooperate. Instead of rolling his eyes or walking away, he jumped in, fixed it, and continued cooking as if it were nothing. That small act, which might seem insignificant to some, is exactly who he is. He notices what needs to be done and does it—without prompting, without complaint, and with a quiet grace that’s rare in someone his age.
Living with him is a lesson in kindness, thoughtfulness, and responsibility every single day. I never have to ask him to take the trash out; he just does it. He cleans out my car without being told, opens my water bottle before handing it to me, and helps tidy the house whenever he sees I’m tired or under the weather. These little acts, which might go unnoticed by others, speak volumes about his character and heart.
But that’s just the beginning. He fixes things around the house, from squeaky doors to broken appliances, and even changes lightbulbs without a word. He works hard to pay his own bills and still finds time to manage my catering company, keeping everything running smoothly while I focus on other tasks. He’s disciplined, responsible, and dedicated in a way that makes you stop and think, how did I get so lucky to raise a young man like this?
He’s also incredibly driven and passionate. A black belt in taekwondo, he trains three to four times a week, not because anyone told him to, but because he loves pushing himself to grow stronger and better every day. He speaks Spanish fluently and has started teaching himself Mandarin, showing a curiosity and self-motivation that are remarkable. And yet, despite all of these achievements, he remains humble, kind, and eager to help those around him.
Next week, he’s turning 18. A milestone, yes, but more than that, it’s a moment to reflect on how far he’s come. Growing up in a single-parent household, he could have easily chosen the path of ease, relying on others to take care of responsibilities. Instead, he has become the kind of man who embodies respect, responsibility, generosity, and thoughtfulness in everything he does. He’s proof that raising a child isn’t just about guiding them—it’s about loving them, trusting them, and letting them grow into the remarkable people they are meant to be.
To all the single moms, or parents in general, raising sons who don’t quite fit the mold of their peers, take heart. It’s okay if sports aren’t their thing. It’s okay if they don’t have a big group of friends. It’s okay if they march to the beat of their own drum. Life has a way of rewarding those who work hard, lead with integrity, and show kindness, and my son is living proof.
I feel blessed every single day to witness his journey. He may only be turning 18, but in so many ways, he’s already taught me lessons I will carry for a lifetime—about responsibility, empathy, patience, and love. He is a reminder that parenting isn’t about changing who your child is, but about helping them grow into the best version of themselves. And as I watch him step into adulthood, I know with certainty that this young man, my son, is going to do extraordinary things. He has already done extraordinary things in my heart.
