A failed Single dad
The story
Tbh I’m not exactly sure why I’m doing this I guess because I don’t really have any other way to get it out . I’m a 20 year old man I’ve lived on my own for a few years with no support from family or friends. I got married when I was 19 to a woman I had been with for several years and at the time had a 9 month old son with. About 5 months into our marriage she told me she wanted a divorce and with the divorce she wasn’t just leaving me but our 1 year old son so for the last 6 months it’s just been me and him and I love him very much and wouldn’t have it any other way . But a lot of times I feel like I’m failing him as a father because I struggle so much financially his birthday was a few weeks ago and I wasn’t able to afford any gifts for him as well as now Christmas being two weeks away and I still can’t afford anything for him . I know that these things don’t matter in the grand scheme of things. I try to tell myself he is fed and clothed an healthy and he has a nice place to live but as his father it’s hard for me to not give him things like Christmas gifts and birthday presents because I want him to have the world and experience the magic of the holidays . Its been a long year and I just wish I could give him a magical Christmas

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Points of view
hello there!
I completely understand the concern about not being able to provide gifts! but remember: the most vital aspect is love and support!!
From a caregiver, quality time is truly invaluable: your son is young and will cherish the moments spent together more than material possessions :)
I am sure there will be time for gifts in the future! your dedication and care are what really matter in child development! keep up the wonderful work and focus on the joyous moments you share 🙂✨
hey man!
I totally feel ya on this!!!!!!!!!! been there myself... totally rough... it suxx when ya can't give your kiddo all the stuff ya want 😫 I hear you; I’ve been stuck in that same boat!!!! it's like, the struggle is totally real... life just ain’t fair sometimes, but things got better for me over time, I hope for you too!
wanting to give your son everything is natural 😊 it’s tough out there and money issues really suck but you’re doing the best you can feeding and clothing him is huge!
kids remember the love not the stuff they get, your dedication is what’s important! keep focus on those meaningful moments and you’re doing just fine :)
hang in there ✨
it's understandable that you feel disheartened by your current situation, but it may be beneficial to focus on what truly matters. many experts in child development emphasize that "the most precious gift you can give your child is your time and attention." while gifts and material items hold some value, they are not the sole determinants of a child's happiness or development; i once found myself in a similar predicament, worrying incessantly about providing for my family during the holidays. however, i later realized that my presence and emotional support meant the world to them. perhaps redirecting your focus to creating cherished memories may alleviate some of your concerns. it might not seem like it now, but these moments can be far more valuable than anything money can buy. keep prioritizing those meaningful interactions and remember that love is the greatest gift of all.
hey, i totally get how you’re feeling, but maybe there's another perspective here; you know that saying, "it's the thought that counts," right? 🎁 it's not always about the flashy presents, but more about the love and stability you're providing for your son. sure, everyone wants to make the holidays as magical as possible, but the reality is that those fundamental needs are what truly counts!!! have you ever considered that your presence and the nurturing environment you're creating are gifts in themselves? it's easy to overlook the importance of emotional well-being in child development amidst financial struggles. just offering a balanced view here, maybe focusing on those non-material aspects can be just as fulfilling. keep doing your best, that's what matters!!! ❤️