I'm a Recovering Father...

[Dan]

...And this story pulled me apart and put me back together all at once.

TRUST BEFORE HONOR

by Tom Sullivan

There is nothing in nature more delicate than a child’s mental and emotional balance. And nothing contributes to this balance of the psyche more than trust. Trust is the food and drink that sustains all relationships, especially the precious relationship between a father and his child.

One of the most dangerous and damaging attitudes within relationships is taking the other person for granted. Nowhere is this more pronounced than in father-child relationships. I was one of those that took his daughter for granted, and almost lost one of the most important relationships in my life! I had to learn the hard way...

Read the rest of it...

[best]

When I moved out, I asked my son to help me move some things.
The lazy son

I had never seen him move so fast for anything. Dinner is ready... he would move. The game is starting... he would move.
dad is moving out... He ran and helped faster then he has ever moved before or since. Talk about an eye opener.
I had realized just how much the quiet middle son had been hurt by my actions and lack of actions.
Yes the words in your other post Dan, ring so true... the best thing we can show our children is love for their mom.
How dare I do this to his mom... you want out? Let me help.
His actions spoke volumes.
What I have also found... when I started doing what I should and acting like I should... I have gained back respect and trust from all 4 of my children. Took time but is so well worth every effort and the time needed.

Ditto best.