As a single mom, I want to say that having a child does not have

In the great expanse of human existence, there are many obstacles that can seem insurmountable, but it is often through struggle and sacrifice that the truest forms of strength and wisdom are forged. Denise Bidot’s words, “As a single mom, I want to say that having a child does not have to be a setback. You can still reach your dreams and teach your kids to reach for their dreams,” speak to the ancient truth that parenthood, far from being a hindrance, can be the very fuel that drives one toward greatness. To carry a child is to carry life itself, a responsibility that demands strength, but also a gift that calls forth the deepest potential from within.

In the ancient world, the mothers of warriors, poets, and kings were often revered not simply for the nurturing they provided, but for the lessons they instilled in their children. Take, for example, the story of Spartan mothers, whose sons were raised to be warriors not through mere instruction, but through example. They taught their children to dream beyond the mundane, to reach for greatness, and to persevere against all odds. Motherhood, in their eyes, was not an obstacle, but a path to greater purpose. In the same way, Bidot’s message calls upon mothers to see their roles not as limiting, but as the foundation for their greatest achievements.

Consider the story of Maya Angelou, who, as a young single mother, overcame immense struggles to become one of the greatest writers of our time. Despite facing hardship and societal challenges, she never gave up on her dreams, nor did she let her role as a mother stand in the way of her art. Angelou’s life is a living testament to the idea that parenthood, when embraced with determination, can be a catalyst for achievement, not a barrier. She raised her son, not in the shadow of her dreams, but alongside them, teaching him the value of resilience and persistence. Her work, her words, and her impact on the world were made all the more profound because they were born out of the trials she faced as both a mother and an artist.

Bidot’s quote also reflects the ancient wisdom of empowerment—the idea that we are stronger together than we are alone. Parenthood does not strip us of our individuality, but rather teaches us to balance our dreams with the dreams of others. The greatest leaders in history, from Alexander the Great to Queen Victoria, often found strength not in isolation, but in their ability to nurture their families and teach the next generation to reach higher. Just as ancient kings were raised to lead through example and education, so too can mothers today raise their children not just to survive, but to thrive, teaching them to pursue their dreams with the same fervor and purpose that they themselves embrace.

The beauty of Denise Bidot's message lies in the belief that parenting is not a limitation, but a launchpad. To raise a child is to teach them by example, to show them that dreams are not for the privileged few, but for all who dare to work, sacrifice, and believe in their potential. Dreams do not fade away when we become parents; rather, they transform into something more profound. In raising children, we are given the unique opportunity to teach not just with words, but with our actions, to show that dreams can be chased at any stage of life, and that the pursuit of greatness is an ongoing journey, not a destination.

Take this lesson to heart: the dreams you carry are not meant to be set aside when you become a parent, but are meant to be shared and passed on. To teach your children to dream, you must show them that it is possible—that no matter the challenges, no matter the circumstances, they too can pursue their passions and achieve the impossible. Just as Bidot has overcome the hurdles of being a single mother to reach her dreams, so too can you overcome whatever obstacles stand in your way. Embrace your dreams as you embrace your role as a parent, for they are not separate—they are intertwined. Dreams and parenthood are not in conflict; they are two forces that, when united, create the most powerful and beautiful foundation for life.

In your own life, take up the mantle of dreaming fearlessly, and let your children see this in your actions. The greatest gift you can give them is not just advice, but example—to show them that, even in the face of adversity, dreams can be realized. Like the great mothers of the past, you too have the power to shape the future, not only for yourself, but for those who will come after you. Just as Maya Angelou and countless others have proven, dreams do not diminish when shared; they only grow. Let the journey of parenthood be a testament to the enduring power of dreams—and teach your children that the world is theirs to conquer.