Bringing new people into a family can be challenging, especially when kids are involved. Being patient, understanding, and empathetic with everyone’s feelings is essential.
A woman we’ll call Hannah recently shared a story about her sister’s upcoming wedding and the difficulties they’re having with getting the kids on board with their soon-to-be stepfather.
Hannah’s sister, whom we’ll call Daphne, is marrying David, who has a son, James. They want all the kids to be involved in the ceremony to show the union of their families. But Daphne’s two children, Reese and Skye, are struggling with it.
Reese and Skye lost their dad three years ago, and the idea of their mom marrying someone else is difficult. They’re not thrilled about the wedding and don’t want to hold James’ hand or be a part of the ceremony.
Daphne tried to understand why they had decided to sit out of the wedding and be on the sidelines. The kids explained they missed their dad, and it was weird having another guy come in to take his place
Hannah spoke to the kids and tried to empathize with them. They admitted they don’t love David or James and wish their mom wasn’t getting remarried. They don’t know how they feel about the whole thing but don’t want to be forced into participating.
Parental Guidance Required
After David had failed to talk the kids into it, Hannah listened to what the kids had to say, and she empathized with the kids, who were still grieving the death of their father. Hannah was unwilling to push further, as the kids had a right to feel as they did.