I am dealing with a great deal of depression. Thank God I have my boys or I couldn't go on living. I just don't know what to do! my oldest son is a gifted student always working well above the others in his class, until this year. Our problems all began at the end of summer and now he is distracted and carring a C average, his teacher is verry concerned. He attends a private school and has had the same teachers for 3 years, so they all know what kind of student he is and know theres a problem. His teacher wants to have a conference with me. What do I tell her. I try to keep my son going but he just doesn't care right now. Why does a nine year old have to be so burdened. I've tried to protect him but I seem to be failing in that area too.<P>then theres my H, been working on plan A.<BR>he seems to get better for a while then gets all that much worse. I never know what to expect.I love him dearly but how do I deal with him and still be loving without being a doormatt.<P>------------------<BR>Irene

Scared and Lonely,<BR>I have boys too and I know what you mean about the burden they carry. I've been depressed too... so I know how you feel. We have a lot in common. All I can tell you that I have done is pray extensively for my boys, that God surrounds them with guardian angels. You know He does and He will protect them. I have been hugging my boys and telling them many times during the day that I love them and that God loves them and that I am working on our family relationships and that God is working on them too. I am being up front and honest. I do not give the boys the specifics cause they don't need to know the details, I just want them to be assured that God and I have a plan.... As far as the depression, I did finally go see my doctor. That has helped too. And lastly, God has lead me to this site and the Rejoice Ministries site to share and learn from others who are standing for their marriages. Just when I needed it the most I found MB. God really does have his hand on us and I pray that He softens the hearts of our h's as well. I am in my desert time (I think) but it will make me stronger in my relationship with God and isn't that what it's all about? Then I will be a warrior for Him too!! Take care and God's Peace. I will hold you and the boys in my heart and prayers today and everyday!!<BR>Laurie

My prayers are with you my S in 14 months and when iam upset so is he. no matter how we try to protect them they still get upset no matter what the age.