Don Simkovich, MA, I am honored that you include me as an impetus to your journey. As a parent, I understand tough children to raise. They are our joy, our honor, and sometimes the good Lord gives them to us as a self-improvement sharpening tool.

I feel I should write on the topic at some point but I am not sure I've earned the stripes yet. As you say, the journey isn't over. Honestly, I think that's why you should write a guide. As one who has gone through some of the toughest times, I think you can guide others through the challenges.

Your honesty about not being through the journey leads to your authenticity. You don't have to have all the answers. As parents, we never do. And (not but :)) as parents, we look for others who don't have all the answers but you do have the experience to guide us through some of the darkest experiences.

I think you are one who can guide. Yes, doing so requires revealing vulnerabilities and some buy-in from the kids. I think the younger-year experiences that you all agree are water under the bridge (so to speak) may be a good place to start.

Let time, healing, and our Father guide the rest. One step at a time, when (after) you say yes and embark on the journey. Whatever you decide on this, I'm in your corner, and you have my support. Best to all of you!