A M asked 08/22/2010:
My husband and I have been separated for nearly three years. I want a divorce, I don’t think necessarily he feels the same way! A week ago he sprung the news that he’s moving out of state, relocating with his job…….talk about the level of stress one can handle. We have a 7 yr. old daughter. The joy of our hearts! It’s been decided that she will stay here with me and he will go alone, after plenty of conversation, considerations, and screaming matches! He has been her primary caregiver for the last 3 years, I am a recovering alcoholic and for a few reasons she lives with him right now, and I am the “weekend parent” my life has been bumpy the last few years, but by the grace of GOD I am renewed and creating my life again. ……….. bottom line I feel like shit because in my daughters best interest she needs to stay here with mom and family, school, her friends however she is such a daddy’s girl!!!!! and their relationship is beautiful. I see this as an opportunity to step up, be there and be the mother God wants me to be, I know what challenges lay ahead of me and being a single parent….. Am I being selfish saying I don’t want her to go with him ….should she go with him? Should we all go together …..ugh……. ???
1 answer
Elli answered:
Most definitely. It has probably been hard enough for your daughter to witness her parents separation at the age of four. She now has had a relatively stable phase with her father and taking her away from him would mean major suffering for her. So if you find it in your heart go with them. But don’t separate them!