My son is soon to be fourteen years old

by Tracy
(cape town South africa)

Hi,

I am a single mom to a son that will be fourteen next month - he has just started at high school this year. He was always a loving,kind child and he can still be sometimes, but like last night he thinks he know it all. He even said very hurtful things like I am not a good mom when I live for God and then my son. He has always come 1st,even my mom stepped in and said your mom is a blady good mom now please stop disrespecting her. He doesn't swear but says hurtful things - I try so hard and yes I am not perfect - God knows this but I TRY!I am even having panic attacks as I can't afford him to have his own room it is killing me.(We live in a two bedroom flat - my mom lives in one to help me financially)I do have a job but low pay,but I see that he has clothing, airtime for cell phone, medication if and when sick,facial cream for pimples, deodorant, etc., etc., etc. I go without so long as he has it all.(That is what a mother does.)

I have read some letters on your site,is this normal and I am going to try back off a bit from him regarding his school work, etc. (He got a scholarship with my help of course - filling in forms taking him for interviews even if we don't have a car - we walk or use public transport but my son is the reason he got it and GOD MAINLY!

Is this all normal??I feel like I am failing as a mom. As I said it bothers me I can't get his own room but I am doing the best I can for now!