Personal story about bringing a fundy around--How a boy becomes a man

[Horse with no Name]

My daughter, as many of you know, got pregnant in High School and had a little girl.
The Father--whose entire family are fundies--refused to acknowledge his responsibility.
We never sought child support. Never sought any type of involvement--monetary or otherwise for this child.
We have just raised her and loved her dearly.
Anyway, a few months ago, this boy showed back up into our lives.
He was sorry that he had missed out on this child's life. Was truly regretful. He has grown up now.
He and my daughter started dating again. They are planning on getting married. However, I find it quite complimentary that he asks me about anything he wants to do with my granddaughter since he acknowledges that I have been the primary caregiver.
He has been spending a lot of time in our house, which consists of quite a bit of political talk and shows. He is in awe that my kids are so aware of the world and its happenings.
Anyways, he has been asking me a lot of questions. This morning we watched Jimmy Carter on MTP. Kind of went over a basic primer of why this is important. And why Iraq being secular was a stabilizer in that region. Diverged into some of the politics and religions, etc.
I have given him some books to read. I started out with some books that were written by conservatives so that he can understand that this isn't all about partisan politics.
I believe he is converting into an independent thinker and learning that things aren't always the way you think.
Kind of like becoming a Father.

[elehhhhna]

1. OMG that's so wonderful.

Karma, Horse. Blame it on your family's good karma.

[calimary]

2. Wonderful! Just WONDERFUL! These stories are my favorites.

You didn't just raise another child, you performed a huge public service.

:toast:

[Fridays Child]

3. If he continues this way, it's the best thing that could ever happen for...

...your granddaughter.

Thanks for some happy non-fiction. :hi:

[Horse with no Name]

4. I think so too.

He is now a WILLING participant in her life.
That can only mean good things for her. And that's what it's all about isn't it?

[Fridays Child]

7. Yes, that is, indeed, what it's all about. And your positive influence...

...on her father is also responsible for good things for your granddaughter. :thumbsup:

[seabeyond]

5. love your story

hwnn. i didnt know your background and equally enjoyed that. thank you for sharing.

[Metta]

6. He who saves one person save the entire world. - The Talmud.

Way to go, Hoss. :thumbsup: :)

[kitkat65]

8. This is a great read. I'm really impressed by the fact that you've been able

to keep your heart open and accept your future son-in-law back into your lives. You could have just as easily written him off instead of forgiving him for his mistakes. Blessings to you and your family - there's obviously a lot of love there.

[xchrom]

9. like alcoholics -- they have to want it.

conservative christians have issues that seem to resemble a kind stunted emotional life.

if they can find it in themselves to lift the blinders then -- with patience the kind of patience you've shown -- they can begin to let in some of the light.

it's difficult because they will become un-moored from a lot -- and it scary.

you are to be congratulated.

[roguevalley]

10. what a miracle this is. I congratulate you all so much.

[bmbmd]

11. Bravo,

My daughter had the same experience her senior year in high school-the young man (Rodney) opted out, and that hurt us more than anything else. Then, when she was six months pregnant, Rodney rang the bell one night and asked to come in. Six-no, seven years later, he's still around.

Whitney graduated college and is teaching school. Rodney interviews to fly for Continental this week. (real jets) Caleb is in first grade, they live up the street from me, and I take him to school every day. By the way-Hannah just turned one. I like her pretty much, too.

Rodney and Whitney are both intelligent, well-read, loving, non-judgemental straight ticket Democrats. Still active in church-first hand knowledge of grace, reconciliation and all that stuff.

Good on you and good on your family.

[Horse with no Name]

12. That gives me hope.

Thank you.:hug: