Stress Center Peer Support

Hi,
I am in my 5th year as a single parent, and my twins left for college leaving me alone with my 12 year old daughter, which is tough enough. I found a best friend in a man who is much older than me, but he has never had children, thinks my daughter is "disrespectful" to me, and now says she's not welcome in his home! What do I do? Try to convince him that he is being hurtful, and encourage him to be more of a positive influence rather than a negative one? Or do I break it off with him in defense of my child? I am extremely depressed over this and don't see any way out.

dear Abundandhope:
I was in a similar situation. Your kids shoul come first before anybody else! if someone wants to be with you,He has to accept your kids and the way they are.He should try to be a friend to her, but if he doesnt want to, then he's not worh being your friend.Is as simple as that!Are you gonna feel right going to his house and leaving your doughter at home alone? His not the only friend in the world.
Think about it.I think that you already knew the answer to your problem.

Right on, LionQueen. You're exactly right on.

I've so been there, done that. It's an intense struggle. However, no man can come between you and your daughter. Period. No matter what. It's all too easy for someone who has never raised kids to sit back and judge. No don't need it. Respect yourself enough to move along. You could just start by meeting a NEW male friend. It's not as if you have to march on over to his house tonight and say it's over -- just slow down! Just don't be available to come over as much and say that your daughter needs you home... and meanwhile find more friends. You could even mention to your friends that you'd like to be "hooked up" in case they know of anyone who's single (wink).