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A Dads Holiday Message to His Family

Family Letter by Stephen C. Schultz

By Stephen C. Schultz

This last couple of days has been stressful for a number of reasons. I would like Stephanie, Ryan, and Amanda to share this link with your spouses.

Many of the conversations, while well-meaning, have been a combination of "Caring" mixed with "Self-Serving"...this includes me.

One thing I know is that we all love each other. So, let’s stop pointing fingers.

This is a piece I wrote for my blog that was inspired by an interaction I had with a mother of one of the students enrolled at Oxbow Academy. She was having a hard time seeing her part in the issues surrounding her son being in treatment. This isn't just a mom thing...Dads are equally found blaming others to help themselves feel better about the situation they find themselves in.

So, as we enter the Holiday Season, let’s not carry grudges. Let’s recognize that it is *our* responsibility to manage our emotions in a responsible way. That doesn't mean we stuff them down or ignore their existence. It means we exercise some introspection and insight and then act on that accordingly in a kind and compassionate manner. We all have crap! Everyone has crap!! When it damages our relationships, the crap wins!!! I hate crap!! Crap is good to hate, not family.

The Roller Coaster of Life

Love you all,

Dad

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