Spring is my favorite time of year. I love watching tiny leaves return to the trees, flowers begin to bloom, and hearing birds reappear with the change of season.
Spring symbolizes new beginnings. It is a time for me to pause, take a breath, and notice the beauty around me—even when it doesn’t feel easy to notice. Life can be hard, and as a parent of a young adult living with substance use disorder, I often carry constant worry and stress. Still, spring feels hopeful, even in moments when I feel depleted.
As parents, it can be difficult to remember that our lives are more than the crisis we are holding. We are allowed to care deeply for our children while also caring for ourselves. We can offer love and support without losing ourselves in the process.
Spring invites me to feel that possibility again. It reminds me that rest is not a reward—it is something I am allowed to choose. I can step away from heartache, even briefly, and reconnect with my own well-being.
I hope you will consider a “spring reset” for yourself—whatever that looks like for you. Whether it is quiet, laughter, time outside, or simply a moment of pause, those small choices matter. Even in difficult seasons, we are still allowed moments of peace and renewal.
Sheila L. is a proud single mom of three teenagers—two boys and one girl—and works full time as the Director of Event Sales at ZooTampa. She is a Certified Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and a Certified Divorce Coach, and also serves as a Peer Parent at Other Parents Like Me (OPLM), where she has discovered her “rocks”—a supportive community that has become a source of strength and guidance. Outside of work and OPLM, Sheila enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as being outdoors. Some of her favorite activities include going to the beach, rowing, and playing tennis.