Something that needs to be said

One day, we won’t have to struggle like this.

Some days, I feel an overwhelming guilt—because I spent all of my adult life raising my children, and now I’m faced with the reality that I don’t have a job history. Not enough to get hired. I’ve applied to so many jobs over the years—fast food, cleaning, anything—but it feels like no one gives you a chance anymore unless you already "fit the mold."

This world is broken in so many ways. I don’t think things should be handed to people—but where did grace go? Where did compassion go? We live paycheck to paycheck, and there are nights we go without just so our kids don’t have to.

Matthew works so hard for us. He pushes through even on the worst days just to make sure the essentials are covered. And still, we have so little to show—except our love, especially for our kids.

Before you judge, remember this: everyone’s life is different. You don’t know what someone is going through—mentally, physically, financially. I want to help. I want to provide. But with over 10 years of no work history, most places won’t even give me a second glance.

I’m at a breaking point. I don’t want Matt to carry the weight alone. I want to be able to get Lilliana, Brendyn, Keira, Nik, and Graysen the things they need and deserve. But how can we do that when we’re barely getting by?

Our electric bill is $400 now, $500 in summer. Rent is $1,500 for a place where nothing gets fixed and pest control is non-existent. We just want to be somewhere safe and stable. Somewhere we can breathe.

I know you carry a lot, babe. And I’m so proud of you. Even when things are tough, you keep going. No, we’re not rich in money. Some days we don’t even know how we’re going to pay the bills. But we are rich in love. And that matters more than anything.

You teach the kids what really matters—respect, boundaries, and that they don’t need $300 shoes to be worth something. That $10 shoes still carry you forward, and humility matters more than labels.

It’s not about money. It’s about love. It’s about presence. So if you’re a parent who thinks your child needs every shiny, expensive thing to be happy, maybe take a step back. They need you. They need love. They need lessons that last a lifetime, not name brands that fade.

My mom couldn’t afford all the “extras,” and I thank her for that. She taught me the value of time, of effort, of real love—and I’d choose that again in a heartbeat over anything money can buy.

When you’ve really struggled, you understand. So if you read this, read it with compassion. If you feel guilty, maybe ask yourself why.

But if you come at me with judgment—save it. I’m only here for the real ones.

In many ways, I’m not ok emotionally. Or even mentally. But I’m hanging on for my kids.

Have grace. Be kind. Help each other. #fyp #struggling #parenthood #postpartum #depression #MentalHealth #finance #finances #lessons #lessonslearned #emotional #compassion #money #lifelessons #parentsoftiktok #parenting101 #life #LifeAdvice #goals #abundance #ineedhelp #positivevibes #positivityonly #stepdad #stepparents #bonusdad #bonusmom #bonusmomlife #bonusdaughter #bonusson #MentalHealth #bestrong #fypシ #reposting #reposted #failing