Dr. Laura:

I've heard you tell divorced parents many times that they shouldn't date or remarry until their kids are up and out.  I wanted you to know how great that advice is from the kid's perspective.

My mother was an alcoholic, and I moved in with my father when I was eleven years old.  They had divorced when I was 2.  As a girl, going through some things with my dad like starting my period or getting my first bra were awkward and embarrassing, but my dad never dated or remarried until after I was in college.  He was always there, eating dinner with me every night, and he knew my friends' names and what I thought about them, and my dreams and plans for the future.  We even listened to you when he would drive me around town!  Without him, I don't know how I would have grown up or who I would be right now.  We have a great relationship now, and even when his new wife aggravates me, I bite my tongue and get along with her because I love my dad and don't want to create drama for him.  

I had a real man as a father, and I've found one to marry now, so they do exist, although they ARE hard to find.  I know it must be hard taking on other people's problems all the time, but you do it with grace, courage, and frank honesty, and I have total respect for you.  


Aurelia