After receiving a message from my grandparents last night, I called them this morning. My grandmother answered and started the conversation with "What should we expect at Christmas this year?" She was referring to the annual Christmas get together, and whether or not my H would be there. Granted, it has been confusing, up until the end of November, I was near finalizing the divorce. Now H and I are back together, and plan on building a stronger marriage than ever. Anyhow, I heard my grandfather in the background, saying something to the effect that he does not want H over. So I asked to speak to him. He told me that he felt that H did not treat me and my daughter good, and that because of the circumstances he did not feel that H should be welcome. I told my grandfather that regardless of how the family feels, that I felt that if I accept and forgive H, then who are they to hold all of this against him? I told him I understood how they might feel, but that I wished that they would re-think being so adamant about not accepting him into the family. He ended up saying that if it meant me not coming to the party, then they would welcome him. Then my grandmother got back on the phone. I again re-explained to her that I have forgiven H, and that I took my marriage vows very seriously. I also told her that I prayed long and hard before I knew that staying with H was the right thing to do. My grandmother told me that she felt I was a better Christian than her, and that if I were willing to forgive him, then she would welcome him also. <P>I just hope the Holidays go smoothly. H and I have talked about how some family members may have mixed emotions about us staying together. We know that regardless of how ANYONE else may feel, keeping our marriage is the best and right thing for us.<P>I know the Holidays may be even more nerve racking and difficult for those of us dealing with these issues. I pray that it goes good for everyone. You will all be in my thoughts.
