I wanted to write an article that addressed the issues being discussed on this forum by stepmoms regarding their adult stepchildren. If I have made any useful points, consider sharing them with your spouse to emphasize the importance of you two protecting your marriage in the midst of dealing with family issues. I know first-hand how the past affects our relationships with our grown kids. Many of us continue to make decisions based on guilt or fear that we will be rejected if we do not atone for our mistakes or previous actions.
I have had to rethink the wisdom of giving my power over to my children. The outcome was never guaranteed even when I granted their wishes. I have learned that my marriage is my first priority in the same way I would expect theirs to be. While I certainly want a mature relationship with my grown children, my future is with my husband.
I hope something in this article is of help to the members of this forum. I sincerely encourage your feedback on this and any subject.
