Why Is Rickey Smiley Raising His Grandson?
Rickey Smiley is a well-known comedian, radio personality, and television host. But in addition to his busy career, he has also taken on the role of raising his grandson. Many of Smiley’s fans have been curious about why he has taken on this responsibility, and in this article, we will explore the reasons behind his decision.
The Background
Smiley’s grandson, Malik, was born to his daughter Aaryn in 2015. Unfortunately, Aaryn was shot multiple times in Houston, Texas, in 2018 and passed away due to her injuries. This tragedy left Malik without a mother, and Smiley stepped in to become his primary caregiver.
The Decision to Raise His Grandson
In an interview with Essence Magazine, Smiley opened up about his decision to raise his grandson. He explained that it was not an easy choice, but it was one that he knew he had to make. Smiley stated that he could not let his grandson go into the foster care system and wanted to provide him with a stable and loving home.
Smiley also spoke about the challenges of being a single grandparent. He admitted that it can be difficult to balance his career and personal life while also raising a young child. However, he emphasized that he is committed to being the best parent he can be and providing for his grandson’s needs.
The Importance of Family
For Smiley, family has always been important. He grew up in a close-knit household with his parents, siblings, and grandparents all living together. He believes that family is the foundation of our lives and that it is crucial to support and care for one another.
In an interview with Rolling Out, Smiley shared his thoughts on the importance of family. He said, “Family is everything. It’s the most important thing in life. If you don’t have family, you don’t have anything. You’ve got to take care of your family and make sure they’re good because they’ll always be there for you.”
The Challenges and Rewards of Raising a Grandchild
Raising a grandchild can be a challenging experience, but it can also be extremely rewarding. Smiley has shared that watching his grandson grow and develop has been one of the greatest joys of his life. He has also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to provide his grandson with a stable and loving home.
However, there have also been many obstacles along the way. Smiley has had to adjust his busy schedule to accommodate his new parental responsibilities, and he has faced financial challenges related to raising a child on his own. Despite these difficulties, he remains committed to providing the best possible life for his grandson.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rickey Smiley’s decision to raise his grandson was born out of tragedy but has been fueled by love and commitment. Smiley believes that family is everything and has made it his mission to provide his grandson with a stable and nurturing home. While there have been challenges along the way, Smiley remains dedicated to being the best parent he can be and proving that love knows no bounds when it comes to family.