This too shall pass...

in #family8 years ago

After close to 21 years of paying child support for 4 children, I learned that I am now done.

Over those years I have experienced a great deal of hardship by giving approximately 51% of my income. Don't get me wrong I am not complaining as it was my duty and I did it as faithfully as I could.

As a reward I have 4 well adjusted adult children who, for the most part, are thriving after their own fashion. As adults, I can only offer suggestions and opinions as they weave their own way through life.

As a parent I know my job will never be over but, for the first time in about 21 years I can now plan for my own life and happiness. Start enjoying life again without worrying about having to personally go without for the greater good of my children.

fester-then-now.jpg

The image on the left is what I looked like when I started paying support and the one on the right, well pretty much what I look like now.

Why am I telling you? Well...I'm telling everyone!

I feel reborn; time to start working on my smile again!!!

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Great job! Thank you for doing it faithfully, those kids will have a better life for it.
Now!!! Get out there and enjoy!

Thanks missk - great idea. Now all I need to do is figure out how best to do that.

Your new-found freedom is certainly something to smile about :)

I hope that all parents at some point finally get to be selfish, you all deserve it. Congratulations on your newfound freedom and being a great parent!

Thank you. I am not sure how to be selfish but I think I shall have fun learning :)

Raising four well adjusted, self sufficient children is a huge achievement. Enjoy their adulthood. 😀

at least half as much as they do - couldn't ask for more

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