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Divorced and Thriving: How to Break the Stigma Around Second Chances

  Let’s be honest; nobody walks down the aisle thinking they’ll one day be divorced. You plan the wedding, dream of forever, and hope love will always be enough. Unfortunately, it isn’t always so. And when it all falls apart, society often makes it worse. Especially here in Nigeria, where aunties at every family gathering suddenly become relationship counsellors, whispering things like, “What happened?” or “You’ll find someone soon, by God’s grace.” As if your worth expired with your marriage . Now, here’s the truth: divorce isn’t the end of your story. It’s a chapter; a painful one, yes, but also powerful. It can be the beginning of rediscovery, healing, and even thriving. So, let’s talk about breaking the stigma and embracing second chances in love, in life, and in yourself. 1. The Stigma Is Real, But It’s Also Outdated: In our culture, divorce is still whispered about like a scandal. People say “she’s divorced” in hushed tones, as if it’s a crime. Men face judgment too, t...

Unique Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day, Even from Afar

 

Mother and daughter

Mother’s Day is a special occasion to show appreciation for the incredible women who raised us. But if you’re far away from your mum this year, don’t worry—there are still plenty of meaningful ways to celebrate and make her feel loved.

Whether you’re in a different city, country, or just can’t be together in person, these unique ideas will help you create a heartfelt experience that your mother will cherish.


1. Plan a Virtual Experience Together: Thanks to technology, distance doesn’t have to stop you from spending quality time with your mom. Set up a virtual brunch, dinner, or tea party via Zoom or FaceTime. You can both prepare the same meal and enjoy it together over a video call. 

If your mom enjoys learning new things, book an online class you can take together like a virtual painting workshop, or any other activity both of you enjoy. This way, you’re creating new memories despite the distance.

Elderly woman using mobile phone


2. Send a Customized Gift Box: Surprise her with a personalized Mother’s Day gift box filled with things she loves. Instead of a standard store-bought gift, curate a package that feels tailor-made for her. Some ideas include:

● A handwritten letter or memory journal

● A cosy blanket or self-care items like candles and bath salts

● A playlist of songs that remind you of her (burned onto a CD or sent digitally)

To make it extra special, you can use a subscription box service that matches her interests, such as gourmet food, skincare, or gardening kits.

Grandma receiving gifts


3. Organize a Surprise Video Montage: Gather video clips from family and friends sharing heartfelt messages, funny stories, or their favourite memories with your mom. Use a simple video editing app to compile them into a meaningful montage. Watching loved ones express their appreciation will be an unforgettable gift that she can cherish forever.

Old woman watching video on tablet


4. Send a Letter for Every Occasion: Instead of just one Mother’s Day card, send multiple letters that she can open throughout the year. Label them with messages like:

● “Open when you need a laugh”

● “Open when you miss me”

● “Open when you need encouragement”

This keeps the love going long after Mother’s Day is over.

Elderly woman writing


5. Arrange a Surprise Delivery: If you can’t be there in person, bring the celebration to her doorstep! Arrange for a special delivery such as:

● A beautiful bouquet of her favourite flowers

● A meal from her favourite restaurant

● A personalized cake or box of gourmet chocolates

Some services even allow you to send a surprise live music serenade where a local musician plays a song of your choice for her.

African mother and daughter


6. Take a Virtual Trip Down Memory Lane: Create a digital scrapbook filled with old family photos, voice recordings, and funny childhood moments. Platforms like Google Photos or Canva make it easy to compile an interactive memory book that she can access anytime.

For an extra nostalgic touch, plan a virtual tour of meaningful places using Google Street View; such as the town where she grew up, a favourite vacation spot, or the home you were raised in.

African grandma video chatting


7. Plan a Future Mother’s Day Getaway: If you can’t be together now, surprise her with a planned trip for the future. It doesn’t have to be extravagant, just a weekend getaway or a spa day that she can look forward to. Create a fun itinerary and send it to her as a “gift certificate” for when you reunite.

Grandma and family at the beach


Being apart on Mother’s Day doesn’t mean you can’t make it special. Whether through virtual experiences, surprise deliveries, or heartfelt gestures, there are endless ways to show your love and appreciation. The most important thing is making her feel cherished, no matter the distance.

How are you celebrating Mother’s Day this year? Share your ideas in the comments below!

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