Try to see the positive in each day . Did they get fed, do they know you love them ? And some days that may be the only thing you get done and that is OK. Enjoy the days when youre able to accomplish more .

@pooh726 yes they get fed. they live with their aunt. and they get to come around during the weekends. and we travel during holidays. thank you for your words.

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. The holidays are always worse when we are alone (and more so when left with children to raise alone) You have nothing to feel bad or that you are failing your kids about. They are being tended to (fed, clothed and know they are loved) whether it is with help of their aunt or would be just by you.

Also, the fact they "remind" you you cannot do it alone... I doubt is because they are neglected or are feeling alone.... it is probably more that they realize how hard it still is for you too ( and they want you to find someone to spend some time with and find happiness again. )
I imagine they love you as much as you do them... and you all want to make the others feel better and find happiness again.

My thoughts and prayers ( and hugs) are with you all.
PS How old are the kids?

Hey bro. I am a father of a beautiful son myself. Like you sometimes I feel like I fail him too. But I remind myself how much I love him and carry on. I don't know if it helps but I think about a bridge (I am a driver by trade) we see the road we travel on but not the supports underneath. You sir are the supports that carry them across. never forget that. I commend you for your strength.

@kingsolomon66 thank you very much for your words...

Example of how hard parenting can be. IN MY OPINION, .. If you love them, and meet their needs ... love, attention, food, shelter, education .. you are doing everything that is to be expected. You are your own judge. You can be as hard on yourself as you want to be. As long as you are reasonable, and 'doing your best', I see no guilt on your part.

I too am sorry for your loss. Best to look forward. The 'order of things' is NOW, FUTURE, PAST .... If that helps. Keep it in mind.

Hello Max,

I am so sorry that you are having such a difficult time raising your children following your wife’s passing. It seems like it would be a hard thing to grieve when you must think about all the things that kids require. It is tough to make time for you. Say, are any of the grandparents involved in the kid’s lives to help you? I know that they may say that you “can’t do it alone” and that you fear that you “fail them”, but if you are there for them when they need you, you won’t fail them. Again, I am so sorry that you are going through this.

Blessings,

Kevin

Kids always think you're doing it wrong.

From this side of the computer screen sounds like they've got TWO adults who care greatly for them....and that's a lot better than a lot of kids have. Just saying.

I'm a single parent too...and yes, it's hard.