Small Gestures of Appreciation Toward Step-Mothers

I’ve been on all sides of the blended family scene, the step-parent, the step-child, the biological parent, etc. you name it, I’ve been it. I’ve been blessed by it in a way as I can help others to see the different sides of the table and appreciate for myself the difficulties each side represents.

When my son went to live temporarily with his bio-dad and step-mom, I was quite apprehensive and concerned that this woman would mistreat my son. I made it my busineess to be cordial to her and express appreciation for the little things she did for my son – even while he showed her his behind. I also called her on the things I thought were out-of-order. I’m saying this to say, give credit where it is due and when you need to put the step-parent in check, you will not be viewed as the angry bio-parent. Remember, it is in your child’s best interest to work WITH the other set of parents, not against them.

I even sent her a heartfelt Mother’s Day card, because after all, she was taking care of my baby in all of his angry teenage rebellion – I knew it was not an easy situation for her to deal with – I knew my son……

5 Comments

  1. December 2, 2007 at 9:55 pm

    this is very humbling message to those who would be in this type of situation.

    just like you said, a step-parent can treated with respect for their involvement in your child’s upbringing.

    this is a great post.

    http://www.MarcusLangford.com
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  2. December 6, 2007 at 7:48 am

    There is should an alternate name used other than “step”.

    There is just something about step-mother, step-child….

    Lynn

  3. December 6, 2007 at 7:49 am

    I made a lot of typos in the message.

    Let me try this again:

    I wanted to say….

    There should be an alternate name used other than “step”.

  4. Soul Sistah said,

    December 10, 2007 at 11:23 am

    “Step” does have a negative connotation. My daughter hated to be referred to as a “step child/daughter”.

  5. kajol said,

    December 4, 2008 at 12:21 am

    dear mom ,
    u r so nice .
    now , am in Bangladesh .
    when will u come back