Parenting after divorce is filled with awkward moments and emotional surprises, but nothing prepared Lisa Matthews for the sting of seeing her daughter send a heartfelt Father’s Day card to Lisa’s ex-husband—a man who, in Lisa’s eyes, had long since let their family down. The experience forced Lisa to wrestle with old wounds, new realities, and the meaning of forgiveness for the sake of her child.
The Pain of the Past
Lisa and Paul’s marriage ended five years ago. The split was messy—fraught with resentment and disappointment. Paul struggled to stay consistent in their daughter Maddie’s life, often missing birthdays and school events. Lisa had picked up the pieces, focusing on giving Maddie stability, love, and a sense of normalcy in their new life in Milwaukee.
Lisa never spoke poorly of Paul to Maddie, hoping to shield her daughter from adult pain. Still, she sometimes wondered if Maddie would notice her father’s absences and start to pull away on her own.
The Unexpected Card
The week before Father’s Day, Lisa was helping Maddie clean her room when she found a colorful, homemade card tucked under Maddie’s pillow. It was covered in stickers and rainbow markers and read, “To the best dad ever! I love you so much. Happy Father’s Day.”
Lisa’s heart ached. Maddie looked up, sheepish but hopeful. “Can I mail it to Dad? I know he hasn’t been around, but I want him to know I still love him.”
Lisa paused, feeling a wave of old hurt. She wanted to scream, “He doesn’t deserve it!” But instead, she smiled and said, “Of course, sweetheart. Let’s get an envelope.”
Wrestling With Jealousy
That night, Lisa lay awake, replaying memories of Paul’s broken promises. She wondered if Maddie’s love for her father meant Lisa’s efforts weren’t enough. Was she being replaced? Did Maddie see her mother as the “bad guy” for not keeping their family together?
Lisa’s best friend, Monica, offered perspective: “Kids love with their whole hearts. You can’t control who Maddie loves, but you can show her how to love without bitterness.”
Lisa realized that Maddie’s card wasn’t a rejection—it was a testament to a child’s hope and unconditional love.
A Conversation and a Lesson
Lisa sat down with Maddie the next day. “It’s wonderful that you love your dad and want to tell him so,” she said gently. “Just remember, it’s okay to feel sad or mad when people let you down. You can always talk to me about it.”
Maddie nodded, then hugged her mom. “You’re the best, Mom. I just want Dad to be happy, too.”
Lisa mailed the card, her own heart slowly healing. She realized that letting Maddie express her feelings—even the complicated ones—was more important than her own pride.
Growth and Forgiveness
Paul called Maddie on Father’s Day, surprised and moved by the card. Lisa could hear the happiness in Maddie’s voice, and for a moment, she let herself feel hope. Maybe things would get better. Maybe Paul would step up—maybe not. Either way, Lisa knew she’d done right by her daughter.
Lisa also forgave herself a little more. She couldn’t change the past or control Paul’s choices, but she could model strength, love, and acceptance for Maddie. She learned that her daughter’s love for her father didn’t diminish the bond they shared—it only expanded the space for healing.
Moving Forward
As the years passed, Lisa continued to support Maddie’s relationship with her dad, no matter how imperfect. She realized that true love means letting go of old hurt and giving your child the freedom to love both parents, even when it’s complicated.
Final Thought:
A child’s love isn’t about keeping score. Support your kids in loving freely—even when it’s hard—and you’ll teach them the true meaning of grace and resilience.
