Just Fishin'

[Bob723]

You're welcome mahhhty. Yes, I am going to meet up with my children for lunch right on Father's Day. I am really looking forward to it. And how about you?

It sounds like you had an interesting day, Mahhhty. I used to love it when my children were very young and would give me some kind of artwork. I cherish it and still have it all, even though all 3 are now in college. It sounds like they had so much fun doing that for you - an awesome Dad!

You wrote something that kind of puzzles me:

"In summary, as the day played out I realized that through all of this, these people still care about me, and I care about them.

I'm not sure how my X would view this. It would be very easy for her to continue to play a victim aka point at others....
to say that her family is siding with me.
to say that they aren't supporting her.
to say they aren't listening to her."

It's terrific that your X-MIL and X-SIL still care about you. I have no doubt that they do. You were a big part of their lives.

But, I have 2 questions for you. Why do you care how your X views this? Do you really think that your X would say that her family is siding with you, etc.?

Here's my take on it. For now, stay focused on you and your children, like you've been doing. If you do, and your X sees consistent behavior by you, who knows where it could lead? I'm afraid that she'll be able to tell (eventually) that you are wondering about these things. If she catches on, I don't think she'll find it very attractive. You have to continue to act like these types of things don't bother you. Let her play the victim - just don't fall for it.

Does this make any sense? So many times, I thought I was on to something and you did not hesitate to say what needed to be said to help me. Thank God you have been there for me. I hope this helps.

What do others think?

Stay strong buddy. I am always pulling for you.

Bob