‘Going Solo’ will help single parents care for their kids — and themselves

I have been a single parent for quite some time now. So, as I was starting to read “Going Solo: Hope and Healing for the Single Mom or Dad,” I was not sure I would find it helpful.

The author, Grammy Award-winning music executive Robert Beeson, begins by focusing on the initial heartbreak, pain and anger of his circumstances. That’s not the stage I’m in.  

However, it was very helpful to read his testimony. Beeson is open and honest about what led him to become a single parent through divorce. I gained some beautiful reminders of how to let go of grief and choose to trust God as I move forward. 

The journey of raising kids as a single parent can be a roller coaster of chaos at times. Various circumstances can come up throughout the journey that create grief and anger toward someone who may have done us wrong — or circumstances out of our control. 

In one of the chapters, Beeson gives an in-depth discussion of the importance of being still, surrendering our brokenness to God and allowing him to direct our path. Not only does Beeson provide encouragement through his own journey, but he also provides Bible verses in every chapter. It’s encouraging to have words we can cling to from our heavenly Father.

I was refreshed by the author’s faithful and hopeful perspective on the kind of relationship I want to develop with my children. He focuses on what I can do to have those loving and honest relationships despite the circumstances.  

One of the things that stood out to me is how important it is, as parents, to remember to take care of ourselves. Often, as we parent alone, the to-do list is long. Time is hard to find. Add to that our desire to compensate for our kids’ having only one parent. We want to cover whatever wounds or grief they may feel. 

For me, these concerns make it easy to lose sight of my own needs. I often feel selfish taking time for myself. This book is a good reminder of the importance of taking care of ourselves so that we can show up as parents in the healthiest way. Beeson shares some healthy habits he created for himself and his family that gave me great ideas for my own family. 

I am thankful for the opportunity to read this book. I found it to be very hopeful and encouraging. 

I also loved how honest “Going Solo” is about the realities of parenting on our own, how it is not an easy path. The guidance and insight Beeson provides — and his turning to God to find hope and faith — is easily relatable to anyone on the single parenting journey, no matter the circumstance that brings you there, whether it is by death, divorce or choosing to parent on your own. 

I would recommend this book to anyone who is on that journey. “Going Solo” renewed the hope in my story and gave me some great tips and perspective on what I want for my family. 

COURTNEY HUNTER is a Licensed Practical Nurse who lives in the Oklahoma City area with her two children. She works for a cardiology practice while she completes a Registered Nurse degree. She worships with the Ridgecrest Church of Christ in Midwest City, Okla.

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