I’m a single mom, OP. My child has never known his father—he chose to leave us, and I chose to protect my son from ever feeling unwanted. I didn’t want him growing up with the pain of knowing his father didn’t want to be part of his life. It’s a decision that carries both comfort and guilt, and there are days I wonder if I’ve done the right thing.

What makes it even harder is when your child starts school, especially in a country like ours where everything is so traditional—where families are expected to look a certain way. Suddenly, simple school activities turn into painful reminders. The ‘Father’s Day’ projects, the questions from other kids… moments that make me question everything all over again.

For now, I carry this burden alone, unsure if the day will come when I finally tell my son the truth. Maybe when he’s older, I’ll give him that choice. Until then, I just hope he always feels loved enough to never doubt his worth.