by E K Stapleton

Created on: March 16, 2008

Am I raising a bad son? You tell me. I am a single mother and have been raising my son on my own since he was 13 months old. He doesn't remember life any different.

Let me tell you he has more compassion and love in his heart than most people I know. My terminally ill aunt lives with us. He has adjusted and does his part to help the day run as smoothly as possible. He doesn't physically help with her care, but he does his share around the house to help out. Oh, did I mention he has his own foundation which raises money for pediatric cancer research. It was started 3 years ago. He decided to grow his hair to make a wig for a child with cancer. That wasn't enough. He wanted to do more. Money was needed for research so kids didn't have to lose their hair due to chemotherapy. He figured he was the guy to do it. He seizes every opportunity to hold raffles, fund raisers and anything else he can think of that will raise money for his cause.

What about school you ask? He strives to be the best he can be. Straight A's right across the board. He has been honored every year of his school career. The Principal's honor roll medal for highest marks in his class. At the teacher's request he also tutors other students, which he finds quite rewarding. He is also the reigning chess champion for his whole school board. As for his behavior. I've never received a call from the school regarding any discipline issues.

Sports are his passion. Soccer in particular. All star status since the age of 7. He is very dedicated and determined. He practices every day. Understanding the value of team work, he is always there faithfully. Not showing up would be letting down the whole team. he also plays basketball, volleyball and ball hockey with the same sense of commitment.

He has an abundance of friends. My phone rings off the hook. I guess it's because he treats everyone with respect and kindness. He doesn't feel the need to center someone out or tease them just because everyone else is. One kid in his class was having a birthday party last week. All the kids pick on him. The other boys wouldn't go because 2 of the boys said if they went they wouldn't be their friend any more. My son said he was going anyway. If they want to be like that I don't need them as friends. He went to the party and of course he was the only one who showed up. The boy having the party was happy, and as for the 2 boys with the attitude, they still call the house wanting my son to play.

I'm not saying I'm a perfect parent. I've made my fair share of mistakes and done things I'll always regret. I think the things I have done right far outweigh the mistakes. I think he's pretty amazing for an 11 year old. I can't wait to see what the future has in store for him.

Learn more about this author, E K Stapleton.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.