Have you ever wanted to stay longer when you were enjoying staying with someone you loved?
Sean, a once ten year old boy, wants us to know that he felt that way every time he left his dad.
His dad lived in Colorado and his mom lived in Oklahoma, so his visits were for more than a week and usually during his school time off.
He said his bond with dad is so strong and that they played football and video games and talked a lot.
One of his last visits, all he could think about was the last day, so he sabotaged his whole visit. He acted terribly. Refused to play football and only did video games alone. On the last day, he whispered to his dad, "Can I stay?"
He knew the answer. The answer is why he refused to be himself.
"You'll always say no because you don't want me!"
Unfortunately Sean's dad didn't understand that Sean's anger came from hurt. He was housing pain of loving his dad so much and staying separated.
His dad penalized him by not inviting him back for almost a year.
This event destroyed what was once a healthy relationship and led Sean to finding acceptance with a rough crowd at school. A crowd he could control with his anger.
I would like to report that Sean has changed and the relationship has been mended, but I cannot.
I can only report that Sean is finishing his last week in rehab as a Jr. High student and may be out in time to still attend his alternative school.
