Connect What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The most rewarding part of being a mom isn’t just one moment—it’s a collection of small, powerful experiences that build over time. It’s the feeling of being their safe place. When your child comes to you for comfort, trust, or guidance, it means you’ve become their anchor in the world. That kind of bond is deep and irreplaceable. I also love watching my kids become their own person.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Surprisingly, motherhood transformed me. I grew more patient, more resilient, and more conscious of what truly matters. It’s not always easy—but the reward is that profound sense of connection, purpose, and love that’s hard to find elsewhere. I ended generational patterns of dysfunction in my family. I became the outsider for standing firm and protecting my children from emotional harm. I would do it all again. They know their lives belong to them only.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would put that money towards savings. As a single mom. I had to develop strong financial discipline, independence, and problem-solving skills. The mental and emotional toll of not having financial back up from anyone, is real: constantly calculating expenses, worrying about bills, and making sacrifices for my children. I have a good job but if something goes wrong, things would be hard. $20,000 sounds like a rock I can hold on to. Safety blanket.