Doris Makori is a Kenyan mother of four, whose children age in range from 3 to 19 years. In this personal account, she talks about her teenage pregnancy experience and the disappointment this caused her parents and other family members. Today, Doris shares an encouraging message with parents who may be going through difficult situations with their teenagers. Read on.
By Doris Makori
“Because of my pregnancy, I was expelled from school and had to sit for my exams as an external candidate, commuting to school daily.
Of course , I knew I had messed up big, and there was so much hurt at home. I could see it in my parents and siblings. My parents never said much during that season, except to encourage me to at least work hard and get something meaningful out of my exams.
I remember that the one thing that gave me the confidence to walk into that school every day, amidst the gossip, and sidelining from both some students and teachers, was knowing that I was still loved at home, even with my mistakes.
I knew there was so much that could be said, but very little was said. And that alone showed me the weight of the matter.
Now that I am a parent, I cannot help but understand the kind of grace my parents needed to carry them through that season. The gossip they must have endured, the shame they had to carry, even though it wasn’t theirs to bear…
I remember when my dad saw my exam results, he said, “Ulinikosea, lakini nimekusamehe.”
You wronged me, but I have forgiven you.
At that moment, it felt like a heavy, dark cloud had been lifted off us.
And my mom told me that all that time, she had been busy figuring out how she would take care of the little baby when I went back to repeat my exams. I hadn’t even thought about that myself!
Well, she still took care of her as I headed to college a year later, and for that, I will forever be grateful.
My encouragement today goes to parents going through similar situations with their teenagers.
Especially those whose children will be sitting for their national exams amidst conflict, pain, and hurt. It could be a pregnancy, like in my case, drugs, or other forms of misconduct.
Mama, Papa, I know this season may be painful. You may be carrying disappointment, hurt, shame, and concerns about your child’s future, all while trying to remain strong for them.
May God give you the grace you need for this season. May He help you carry the burden your children may not even know you are carrying. May He give you wisdom to firmly correct them without withdrawing your love, and the strength to walk with them through the very consequences of their choices.
And may He turn the sorrow you carry today into joy.
Your child may have made a mistake, but they still need you. Even if you don’t say much or choose to say much.”
About Doris Makori
Doris Makori is a Christian author, communication expert, and Christian moms mentor. Her work is rooted in her Christian faith and her experiences of motherhood. Through her books, she writes to equip parents and children with resources rooted in biblical wisdom for everyday life.
Some of her published books include:
Dear Darling Daughter, a Christian book written as heartfelt letters from a mother to her daughter, offering guidance for navigating adolescence and the journey from girlhood to womanhood.
Building Under Construction, a children’s book that addresses bullying, forgiveness, and identity, encouraging children to see themselves through God’s truth.
Prayers for Your Child’s Education, an eBook with prayers for children at different stages of their educational journey.
Many thanks Doris for sharing your story with our dear Mummy Tales readers.
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