The Bloody Doors Off

When I proposed to Marlo, it extended to her son. I was stating, without hesitation, that I was willing to become a parent to Coltrane.

So, for the first time, in, well, forever, I’m taking responsibility not only for myself, but my relationship with her and, as important, taking responsibility for the caring and well-being of a small human.

I’ve been a partner before. I’ve been in relationships where my significant other had an offspring. But until now, I’ve never parented.

I wish there was a manual.

I know, every parent does.

I’ve had to grow up considerably in a brief period of time. Not that I wasn’t an adult before, but now my choices and decisions reflect on how another person’s personality and ability to function in the real world will develop.

I worry that I’m stepping on toes. But I know Marlo would tell me if I was out of line. I try in all cases to support her decisions, as one should. While dipping my toes in the parental waters and hoping he respects me as much as I do him.

It’s true what they say: you don’t fully understand your parents and the choices and sacrifices they made until you are a parent.

I’m not scared. I love the boy like he was my own blood. I just hope I do right by him and Marlo.

Please, don’t let me screw up too much.