Put the kids first, go to co-parenting counseling
Q. My ex and I have been split up for two years. He had an affair and left. He’s living with her and seems happy, but that’s not the real issue. We have four children, all 18 and older. I know we must co-parent, but his take on things that have happened concerning the kids is so different than mine, it’s obvious he’s lying. When I confront him about the lies, he acts like I’m crazy. He undermines my parenting, sets me up for failure and each time I try to defend myself, it doesn’t matter. The kids are taking his side, and he’s the one who cheated! I don’t know what to do.
A. It is very difficult to assess and then offer suggestions when I am only hearing from one side, but it seems what you are saying is that it wouldn’t matter, anyway. He would lie about what happened. So I will offer my take on the big picture.
I have no idea who is right and who is wrong. I have no idea who is lying and who is not, nor would any co-parenting professional, even if you both sat in our office and continued the narrative. But the truth is, it doesn’t matter. When children start taking sides, it is out of desperation.
Their parents have lost sight of what is important — the children. They are locked in a war of who is right and who is wrong.
Your ex could be setting you up, but he could also honestly have a completely different perspective to whatever “happened concerning the kids” than you do. The key word: kids. It’s about them. When you and dad put aside trying to prove who is right and who is wrong, your children will not be forced to choose between you. Neither of you will have to defend yourself because you will both be on the same side — for your children.
When you are in this position, it is difficult to know exactly how to put the kids first. Go to co-parenting counseling with a professional who refuses to be your referee. You need a coach.