I keep this little "reminder" in a place where I am sure to see it every day. It serves as a constant reminder of what's really important when a Mom and Dad are no longer together under one roof.
It's called "A Child's Bill of Rights in a Divorce." I suppose much of it can be used in any situation when a Mom and Dad are no longer together.
"I have the right..."
* To be told that my mother and my father still love me and will never abandon me.
* To be told that the family break-up is not my fault, and not to be told about the adult problems that caused it.
* To be considered as a human being, and not as another piece of propety to be fought for, bargained over or threatened.
* To have decisions about me based on what is in my best interests, not on past wrongs, hurt feelings or my parent's needs.
* To be allowed to love both my father and my mother without being forced to choose or feel guilty.
* To know both my father and my mother through regular and frequent involvement in my life.
* To have the financial support of both my father and my mother.
* To be spared having to listen to bad, hurtful comments about either of my parents which have no useful purpose.
* To be a child, and not to be asked to tell a lie or act as a spy or send messages between parents.
* To be allowed to have affection for the other people who may come into my life without being forced to choose or feel guilty or being pressured.
I try to recognize these "rights" every day so that my daughter can be equally loved and parented by her Mom AND her Dad even though we live apart. Even though her parents may have their differences, I try my best to make sure that the differences have a minimal effect on her life.
I just wanted to share it.
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