Dark Days........

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I am heartbroken for you.
Sorry. This sucks. If you ever want to talk/vent, I’m always happy to lend an ear.
 
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While there is life, there is hope. Hang in there. It's impossible to know what the future will bring.
 
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Talk to people.
Professionals or friends.
Do not suffer alone.
Best
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I am sorry to hear about your situation. The Omega Forums is here for you if you need anything.
 
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I realize none of us know the details of your situation, but, being a father of two, I could never fathom having my sons being taken away from me. I am so sorry for you and I can only hope and pray that there will be a rainbow above you in the future. She is and always will be your daughter and it all too obvious the love you have for your child. She will be there for you and you for her one day in the future.
 
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Thank you everyone for all your words that I read this morning. For me to be able to share my feeling this way and read your comments helps me right now.
 
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This is devastating, sickening news.

I am from an era when divorce was not only accompanied by unimaginable pain, but was stigmatized as well. I was your little girl. After my folks split, I didn’t see my dad much. He made an uninspired effort as a father.

Just keep letting her know, every day, that you love her, and are there for her. Even if your ex throws road-blocks in your way, and makes it difficult.

if you do that, it will all be fine. Trust me.
Nice to read your words as "the little girl". I have tried to be the "inspiring" father and in a way make up for the shortcomings that I experienced as a child from my own father. This makes the pain just that bit worse because I wanted to be there for her as she grows and never let her down. The fact that my opportunity to do this has been taken away from me stabs me deeper in my heart. I do indeed have a diary where I make an entry each day as you suggest to remind her how I feel and the happy things we did together. Perhaps one day she will read it and understand how much I love her, the fun we had and in doing so help the healing process.
 
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The like button seems wholly inappropriate for a post of this nature but please take the likes as a measure of solidarity and compassion.
 
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That is tragic to hear, mate.
But it is good that you have an outlet, any outlet, to share and articulate what you are going through.
There is no shame in being in the position you find yourself, and sharing what you are going through gives perspective and helps bring some light to the dark places it is all too easy to slip into.

Your daughter obviously knows you love her. Never let her forget that. Even if you have to reassure her from a distance, a child that knows she is loved is a child that can build and maintain resilience.

In a proper shit situation, take the positives, and play the long game. Be the bigger person, for her sake.

And don't be afraid to vent, here, or wherever.
You'll always have an ear to bend.
Good luck.
 
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The like button seems wholly inappropriate for a post of this nature but please take the likes as a measure of solidarity and compassion.
I do indeed. Thank you.
 
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Very sorry to hear of your experience. I am one of those who truly believes that positive things invariably emanate from even the most difficult of circumstances, given an open and positive mind. Similarly, the writer Anais Nin once said: "Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage."

I suspect that after some time, you will look back at the event as a positive catalyst, though probably not in ways that you could easily imagine at the moment.
 
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Perhaps one day she will read it and understand how much I love her, the fun we had and in doing so help the healing process

I’m reading between the lines that she will be with her mother most of the time.

In a perfect world, each parent recognizes their differences, and why things didn’t work out, and behave like adults, never using the child as a wedge or a bargaining chip, nor exerting undue influence because of opportunity, using the time to poison the mind of the child with hateful and bitter stories about how despicable the other parent is.

And even though these young minds are very susceptible to parental bias, there is good news: she will be an adult one day, with her own mind and assessments, and will wade through all the historical inaccuracies, and decide what kind of parent you both were, completely on her own. So just make it obvious, in any way you can, that she is a priority in your life, and even if there are obstacles for her realizing it now, she absolutely will in the future.
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Been there and my biggest fear was not seeing mine everyday. Even so, for nearly 10 years having her with me at least twice a week plus holidays and technology allowing for daily catch ups, we’re as close as ever.
My thoughts are with you. It’s a battle, but you’ll win.
 
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Very sorry to hear of your experience. I am one of those who truly believes that positive things invariably emanate from even the most difficult of circumstances, given an open and positive mind. Similarly, the writer Anais Nin once said: "Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage."

I suspect that after some time, you will look back at the event as a positive catalyst, though probably not in ways that you could easily imagine at the moment.
good words.....
 
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I’m reading between the lines that she will be with her mother most of the time.

In a perfect world, each parent recognizes their differences, and why things didn’t work out, and behave like adults, never using the child as a wedge or a bargaining chip, nor exerting undue influence because of opportunity, using the time to poison the mind of the child with hateful and bitter stories about how despicable the other parent is.

And even though these young minds are very susceptible to parental bias, there is good news: she will be an adult one day, with her own mind and assessments, and will wade through all the historical inaccuracies, and decide what kind of parent you both were, completely on her own. So just make it obvious, in any way you can, that she is a priority in your life, and even if there are obstacles for her realizing it now, she absolutely will in the future.
So well put. Your last paragraph is the reassurance that I am hanging on to. It feels good to share and it is amazing to me how the words expressed by posters helps.
 
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I know someone who had a very, very acrimonious divorce. They have two children who were both under 10 at the time. There have been many ups and downs (awful at times). Also keep In mind Children (especially in their teens) are on their own mission for independence and we are all programmed (rightly) to be selfish in our youth while we carve out a life and seek advantage. Both Children (grown up /12 years on), now have a great relationship with him, and I have to say both are very grounded and doing well. After may rocky patches and breaks in contact they are fine young adults. From what I have observed just be very consistent, be beyond reproach in your actions and try to let your head rule your heart (easier said than done). Over time things find an equilibrium and kids gravitate to solid ground, honest non-judgemental advice and unconditional love - and if they do not it does not mean it is your fault so don't blame yourself - we are all just human at the end of the day and on a journey as individuals.
 
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So well put. Your last paragraph is the reassurance that I am hanging on to. It feels good to share and it is amazing to me how the words expressed by posters helps.

And you, in kind, are courageous for opening up and soliciting input and support.
 
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Your daughter will understand one day what you went through for her.

Yes this. Just work hard to be the best man you can be for now.
 
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There may be a technical issue with the forum software.
There are simply not enough likes to properly appreciate the goodwill here.

Chin up all who are separated for whatever reason.
 
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My daughter has been one of the three most important people in my life. We almost share the same mind, we can read each other so fast. We love hanging out together. There’s no one I’d rather watch Absolutely Fabulous with than her.

When I read your post @jaguar11 , I immediately tried to imagine what it would have been like. And words just failed me, the idea was so disturbing.

She’s an adult now, engaged to be married, living in another State. But she and I know we have an enduring connection. Time and distance can’t change that.

I suspect you know this about your daughter too. Depend on it. I’m so sorry for your loss.
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