What I See and Feel as a Child in a Separated Family

Hi, I want to tell you what it’s like for me growing up in a family where my parents are separated. Sometimes, I feel happy because I get to see both of you, but other times, I feel confused, sad, and unsure about what’s really okay.

What I Notice

I watch the way you both act – how you talk, how you handle things, and how you show love or frustration. When I see you arguing or upset, I get scared or worried. Sometimes, I hear you shouting or see you ignoring each other, and I wonder if I did something wrong. I see that you’re trying to be strong for me, but it’s hard because I don’t always understand what’s happening.

How It Affect Me

When you’re not together or when you fight a lot, I feel like I’m caught in the middle. I love you both, but I don’t always know where I stand. Sometimes, I wish things could go back to being like they used to be. Other times, I just want everyone to be happy and peaceful. When I see you fighting or being mean, I start thinking I have to fix things or that I’m somehow to blame.

What I Wish for

I wish you could show me that even if you’re not together, you still love me and want what’s best for me. But sometimes I feel like you use me as a weapon in your arguments. I wish I could see you both being kind and respectful, even if you argue or disagree. I’d feel safer and happier knowing that I don’t have to choose sides or feel guilty all the time.

What I Learn from You

I learn a lot from how you handle the situation. If I see you being kind, honest, and respectful to each other, I learn that it’s okay to feel upset but not to hurt others. If I see fighting or ignoring each other, I think that’s just how grown-ups are supposed to behave. I want to learn from you what healthy relationships really look like.

My Feelings About Staying or Leaving

Sometimes, I wonder if staying in this family is the right thing, especially when I see fighting or sadness. I wish things could be different, but I also see that you’re trying to do what’s best for me. I just hope that whatever happens, I get to see love and kindness — not anger or loneliness.

What I Hope for the Future

I hope that no matter what, I can grow up feeling loved and safe. I hope you both can show me that even if you’re apart, you still care about me. I want to see you both happy, and I want to believe that families can be strong even when they’re not together.

In My Heart

I love my family, and I want us all to be okay. I know it’s complicated, and I don’t always understand everything. But I do know that I need love, kindness, and peace. Please remember, what I see now will shape how I grow up trusting love and knowing what’s right.