Parents Need Love: Confronting Grief Part 2

Written By: Aaron Paxton Arnold

Can you share an experience where you had to make a difficult decision that balanced your personal desires with the needs of your family? How did you navigate that decision-making process?

It's honestly pretty seamless especially when you have a solid partner. I am able to do what I need to do without sacrificing my personal needs or the family. Support is key.


What self-care practices have you incorporated into your routine to ensure you maintain your well-being while being a devoted mother?

Enhancing my skincare regimen, watching tv, listening to my podcast, napping etc. 

How have you found support and community as a Black mother? Have you participated in any groups, online platforms, or sought out mentorship to help navigate your journey?

Yes, I do have community, whether be via my friends who are moms or via organizations such as Jack&Jill of America and Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc.

Reflecting on your experiences, what advice would you give to other Black mothers who may be facing similar challenges? What wisdom would you share with them to empower and uplift their journey?

Community is big. Doesn’t have to be a large community but finding like minded moms to support you is key. 

Finding things that bring you joy and enrichment so you are a fulfilled person. 

How do you balance, or decide, between maintaining older traditions you were raised on and also taking new approaches to them, or completely letting them go?

I am always looking to see what’s applicable vs. where I am in my life right now. I constantly evaluate those traditions, to see if they are providing a desired outcome. I also seek counsel from friends, family and my husband when it comes to things like this.