Today in class we read a book called The Spider and the Fly based on a poem by Mary Howitt and beautifully illustrated by Tony DiTerlizzi. The poetry portrays a cunning spider who is deviously trying to persuade a dear fly into his home. At first the fly refuses saying she knows what happens to those who give in to the spider’s persuasions. The next day when the fly comes by the spider lures her in with his flattery words and she never returns. As I sat in class thinking about this tragic tale I likened it to us as single parents, because so often we find ourselves trapped in our own webs.
We live in a dangerous world. As you begin to face the dating world again, don’t let the smooth talk lure you into a predator’s trap. Trust your instincts. If something isn’t sitting right with you, end it. Don’t let your loneliness cloud your judgment when it comes to men. While there are many good men out there, there are also many bad ones who are looking for vulnerable women to prey on. Don’t allow yourself to be one of them. Be strong and confident in yourself. There is no room to get mixed up with the wrong kind of guy. Dating when you have children is very different than dating without them. You have to keep their best interests in mind.
If for any reason you sense that something isn’t right, get out before you and your children end up in a bad situation. It is so easy to get lost in the flattery words of men. It feels good to be complimented, praised, and loved, but make sure it is for the right reasons. A good man will tell you these things without asking for something in return. He will love you for who you are and will bring out the best in you. If he does anything less than that he isn’t worth your time. Don’t fall victim to the flattery words of the spider, or you too will become trapped in his web.