How do you navigate being a single parent?
Deloris: I grew up in a two-parent household with strict parents. I kept a lot of those same values with my four boys. I had to establish I was their mother and not their friend. We can laugh and talk all day but never cross the lines of disrespecting me in public or private. We do not have any family here in Montgomery, so I had to establish some tillage to raise my children. My village was my eyes and ears when I could not physically be with my children.
Describe your parenting style for your four sons.
Deloris: I have never sugarcoated anything with my children. I have always given them the hard truth about life. They know and understand that I love them with all of my heart; therefore, it’s coming from a place of love.
What has your extensive career in the military taught you about motherhood?
Deloris: You fail to plan; you plan to fail. Life will throw all types of curve balls at you. I always remember there is no testimony of passing the test first. Just because something didn’t work today does not mean you must give up. Try and try again until you master it.
How do you encourage your sons to pursue their passions in life?
Deloris: I’m all about what makes them happy. I tell them if they find something they love, it should push them to excel. Settling is not an option for me when it comes to my children because I didn’t pay. It’s okay to have a bad day. That means waking up with a renewed mind the next day and motivating yourself to be better than yesterday.
How is being a grandmother different from motherhood?
Deloris: The difference between being a grandmother and motherhood is that I can give the grandkids back! I also realize my job now is to advise my children on raising their children; however, I understand they don’t always have to take my advice.
What’s the best mom advice you’ve ever received?
Deloris: Allow your children to be individuals. What works with one child will not necessarily work with the other ones. And there should never be a favorite! Love them individually but equally.
How do you balance being a working mom, PTA member, supporting extracurricular activities, and volunteering?
Deloris: I believe in doing the best I can. That might mean three hours of sleep one night. Life does not care about what you have going on. Life will happen whether you want it to or not. So, I have learned to take it one day at a time. Keep it simple stupid (KISS).
What is your biggest fear as a mother?
Deloris: My biggest fear is not being a positive role model to my children. I tell my boys that I cannot teach them how to be a man, but I can teach them how to be a good person!
How do you foster strong relationships with your children?
Deloris: I reassure them that there is nothing like a mother’s love. They know my love for them is unconditional. Whether they are right or wrong, I will always love them for “WHO” they are. They know my door is always open to talk and share their thoughts with me.
Rapid Fire Questions
What’s your favorite movie? Love and Basketball
What’s your favorite season? Fall
Do you prefer the social setting or a quiet night at home?
I prefer a quiet night at home with my loved ones.
What’s your greatest strength? Determination
What’s your favorite quote?
I can do all things in him that strengthen me. (Phil 4:13)
Deloris Wood works for the government and has four sons. She resides in Montgomery, AL.
