Gary Dickson made a leap from headlines and two studies to the opinion single mothers are not capable of providing a positive environment for the welfare of a child. He indicated that there must be a stable relationship between a mother and father tied together with a golden ring. Really?
Perhaps he should look around locally. Attend school functions, Saturday soccer games, evening T-ball games, and dance recitals. I seriously doubt you will spot the kid who is being raised by a single mom as he runs down the soccer field; she catches a fly ball, or during the seven changes of costumes during the June dance recital. Right here in Lake County single mothers are succeeding in raising happy healthy kids. Money is saved for swim camp, soccer sign ups, uniforms, cleats, and dance lessons.
Single mothers help with homework after making and eating dinner together. Books are read before bedtime. They take Saturday hikes up Mount Konocti and Highland Springs. They take educational fun trips to Turtle Bay, Trees of Mystery, and the Aquarium.
It is an insult to lump single mothers in with Casey Anthony. I expect more from Mr. Dickson. In addition, single mothers deserve respect. Perhaps instead of focusing on lurid national headlines, how about focusing on local people? Single mothers who work hard at living well. They are raising kids to be strong and respectful with limitless possibilities. Kids who dream of being dancers, lawyers and marine biologists, please give their single mothers the credit they deserve.
RK Stevenson
Lake County
