Hello, my name is Strawberry!
From what you've told us and your situation, it's clear that everyone has the right to pursue their own happiness. After you and your ex-wife parted ways, you and your first girlfriend got back together. I think at the time, you were apart because you hadn't yet found true love. Over time, you've both matured and developed a more mature outlook. You've chosen to stay together because you've discovered that you're each other's true love.
Having experienced a failed marriage, you'll have a better understanding of how to find a lifestyle that works for you both. You'll also have a clearer idea of what you want. The questioner is reluctant to give up the children, so he's discussed with his girlfriend the idea of bringing the children with them. His girlfriend's plan is for her to take one and you to take one, and then you'll have another child of your own.
It seems like your girlfriend knows exactly what she wants. She even feels that you should support her actions. If she is worried about too much pressure, you could always stop having children. After all is said and done, she wants to have your own child. It seems like she might lack a sense of security, so having another child that belongs to the two of you could really help her feel more secure.
1. It's so important to communicate with both sides!
It's great that the questioner loves his children and wants them to be around him more. However, there might be a few challenges along the way. For example, because they're not his biological children, the girlfriend may face some hurdles in parenting. Being too strict might make the children unhappy, while being too relaxed might lead to them feeling like they're not being treated as his own. It might be helpful for the questioner to explain to the girlfriend that, because of the children's issues, it's important to have some contact with the ex-wife. Then, it's up to the girlfriend to decide what's best for her and the children.
It's been ten years since you've lived with your ex-wife, and you still have feelings for the children. You want to take them both with you, but do you think she'll agree? Children are the life of their parents. You love your children, and she loves them too. Don't make her lose them again after losing you. That would be too cruel for her.
So here's what I think: the questioner should respect the ex-wife and children, ask them what they think, and if it happens that the ex-wife agrees and the children are willing, then the problem may be solved a little better.
2. Be aware of your true thoughts, my friend.
It seems like the questioner wants to take the children back to live with him. His girlfriend only agrees to let you take one, and the questioner's parents want to take both back with them. They can help you with the children! If the children are really brought back, will the questioner insist on taking them with him or will his parents take them?
I know this might seem like a compromise for your girlfriend, but I think it's important to remember that if the child is raised by the parents, it's not fair to anyone. From your girlfriend's perspective, your parents raising the child is basically the same as you raising it, because it's still your money being spent.
From the child's perspective, he's lucky to have lots of love from his grandparents, too! What he might be missing is the love of both parents. It's so important to know what you really think, because the way you handle things determines whether it will hurt the children.
3. Try looking at the problem with a different mindset.
From what I can see, your girlfriend is a very sensible woman. She knows what you're up against and isn't asking you to give up on having a child.
She's planning to take one and you're planning to take one, and in the future you'll have another child. It's a great plan! It's also a wonderful show of love. She loves the questioner so much that she's willing to be your child's mother.
I think one child per person is probably best, but as long as the kids get lots of love and security, they'll be just fine!
Her arrangement is totally fine! You two are living together, so it's really important that your relationship isn't affected by other things.
I really hope my answer helps the questioner. All the best!
Comments
This is a very complex and sensitive situation. I understand that you're torn between your love for your girlfriend and your feelings towards your children. It's important to consider everyone's wellbeing, including your own. You might want to focus on what decision would lead to longterm happiness and stability for all parties involved. Perhaps talking with a counselor could provide some clarity on how to proceed in the most responsible way.
It sounds like you are facing an incredibly difficult dilemma with no easy answers. The pressure from your mother and the differing views on having more children are adding to your stress. In such a challenging time, it might be helpful to take a step back and evaluate what truly matters to you in the long run. Communication with your girlfriend about these concerns is vital; maybe finding common ground can help ease the tension.
You've been through a lot emotionally, and it seems like the conflict over the number of children is just one part of the bigger picture. It's clear that you care deeply about your girlfriend but also have strong ties to your children. It might be worth exploring ways to balance both aspects of your life without compromising your values or the needs of your children. Seeking professional advice could offer some guidance on how to navigate this tricky situation.
Your situation is heartwrenching, and it's evident that you're trying to do what you believe is best for everyone. However, it's equally important to listen to your own heart and needs. With so many conflicting opinions and pressures, it's crucial to make decisions based on what will bring peace and contentment to your life. Sometimes, compromise is necessary, and other times, standing firm on your beliefs is required. A mediator or therapist might assist you in making these tough choices.
The situation you describe is filled with emotional weight and significant life changes. It's understandable to feel conflicted and upset given the circumstances. Reconciling with your high school girlfriend while leaving your family behind is not a choice to be made lightly. Considering the impact on your children, as well as the future you wish to build with your girlfriend, is essential. Open communication and possibly seeking external support, such as family therapy, could help you find a path forward that respects everyone's wishes and needs.