Dear Divorcing Mom And Dad,
I understand the turmoil you’re going through. I was on the same boat as you when it capsized. I hope you two can crack open a tasty beverage and take a brief intermission from hating each other and listen. I know your emotions are getting in the way of reason, but please try and hear me out.
First, don’t talk bad about each other to me. It creates a weird dichotomy that splits my mind in several directions that are impossible to navigate. The good news is that you don’t have to gossip about each other. The truth will always find its way into the light.
Second, I appreciate all the new toys, like the cell phone dad didn’t trust me to have because I’d run the minutes up. You don’t have to try and buy me, or out buy the other. This is, well childish and a waste of time and money. More importantly, those efforts could be better spent elsewhere, like on that car I’ll beg to have, grow to hate and will ultimately drive into a tree.
Next, don’t talk to me about the custody battle. It makes me sound like a pet and I don’t understand, nor care, about the complexities of it. Don’t put ideas in my head about what to tell the counselor. If you’re concerned about what I might say, then either treat me better, or create a better environment. The truth is so much easier to tell than lies.
Lastly, you’re not alone. Shield me from your fights, not your pain. No one can be strong forever. This will indirectly remind me that you’re human. Seeing your weakness will actually bring us closer and I will never forget it. It feels good to get that off my chest. There’s more I’d like to say, but you have a lot on your plate and I’d hate to appear unreasonable. Sincerely, Your Loving Son P.S. I didn’t run up the minutes on our phone plan. It’s all lies!
How did you explain the divorce to your children? How did you keep them from the horrors of divorce? What advice would you give parents who are going through divorce?