Divorce is tough, and sometimes it’s the only option. Even if you’re sure it’s the right choice for you and your family, it’s not what anyone imagined when you held a bouquet and exchanged rings in front of God, the caterers, and all your friends.
OP, a 27-year-old single mother of two, moved back in with her parents after leaving an abusive marriage. She found a full-time remote job, earning $15/hour, but is starting from scratch as her car was repossessed due to her ex not paying the bills. While OP works, her parents watch her 2-year-old daughter and 5-month-old son. Recently, OP’s mother asked her to consider part-time work to reduce the burden and spend more time with her children. OP explained that this isn’t financially feasible and suggested she might need a second job, which upset her mother, who insisted on prioritizing the children and opposed daycare. OP offered to keep the kids with her in her office, but her mother argued they need space to thrive. Mixed opinions from others have left OP questioning her actions—some agree with her mother, while others empathize with her situation. Despite appreciating her parents’ help, OP insists on maintaining her full-time job to achieve independence.
Scroll down below to read the story in OP’s own words.
1. OP asks if she is an a-hole for not switching to a part-time job to babysit the kids as she needs the money.
2. OP, a 27-year-old single mother of two, moved back with parents after leaving an ab*sive marriage. Found a full-time remote job after car got repossessed.
3. Now, OP must save for a car. Used cars are pricey, but safety is vital with two kids. Her $15/hr job, with OT, is watched by her parents.
4. OP’s mom suggested part-time work for more family time. OP explained financial constraints and potential second job. Mom disagreed but agreed to consider daycare options.
5. OP’s mom accused her of avoiding parenting by not going part-time. OP insisted on keeping her full-time job to secure her own place. She offered to have her kids at her office, but her mom disagreed.
6. Opinions were split: some sided with her mom, stressing parental presence, while others sympathized with OP’s breakup and postpartum challenges. Now, OP questions if she’s at fault.
7. OP acknowledges sounding ungrateful for her mom’s help and emphasizes her gratitude. She understands the mental toll of childcare but is willing to bear job repercussions to ease her mom’s burden.
8. OP clarifies her daily routine, including early mornings, childcare duties, and full-time work. Her mom helps during lunch, playtime, and naptime, but OP is actively involved in her children’s care.
9. After work, OP engages in outdoor playtime, bathes her children, feeds them dinner, watches a movie, and puts them to bed, before repeating the routine the next day.
Now that you have read the story, it’s time for you to see what Redditors had to say about this. Read till the end to see what are other people’s opinions on this. Don’t forget to share your own opinion at the end of this article.
10. OP’s doing her best balancing work and childcare. Cut her some slack.
11. It’s unfair to judge OP without knowing the full story of her struggles.
12. Parenting is tough. OP’s efforts shouldn’t be criticized but applauded.
13. OP’s prioritizing her kids’ well-being while navigating difficult circumstances.
14. NTA. OP’s situation is challenging; she deserves understanding, not judgment.
15. Being a single parent is hard work. Let’s support OP instead of blaming her.
16. OP should also know that her parents are supporting her in a great way.
17. Everyone’s situation is unique. We shouldn’t judge OP without considering her challenges.
18. Redditors have concluded that OP is not to be blamed here.
19. It’s not fair to label OP as the antagonist. She’s doing her utmost to provide for her kids.
20. Some people think that OP was dumping her kids on the mother instead of daycare.
What are your thoughts on this story? What would you do, or how would you react if you were in OP’s position? You know that your feedback means a lot to us; therefore, we want you to share your thoughts in the comment section below. For more such articles, keep visiting Defused. Have a nice day!
