It can be difficult to keep relations cordial with an ex sometimes, but it’s important to rise above it where children are involved.
One person who can attest to this is dad Billy Flynn, who is setting the perfect example for parents who have parted ways.
In a Facebook post shared by Love What Matters, Billy sent out a special message to any mum or dad struggling to stay on good terms with their ex: rise above it.
Billy revealed that, at the time of posting, it was his ex-wife’s birthday. Rather than letting the day pass without celebration, Billy organised something very special involving their children.
Billy got up early and brought flowers, cards and a gift over for the children to give to their mother, and then he helped them to make her breakfast.
As lovely as this gesture was, there was one problem for Billy. He revealed: “Per usual, someone asked me why the hell I still do things for her all the time. This annoys me. So I’mma break it down for you all.”
Billy went on to share his motivation behind staying on good terms with his former partner.
“I’m raising two little men. The example I set for how I treat their mum is going to significantly shape how they see me and treat women, and affect their perception of relationships. I think even more so in my case, because we are divorced,” he explained.
Billy went on to share some excellent advice for any parent sharing his situation.
“If you aren’t modelling good relationship behaviour for your kids, get your s**t together. Rise above it and be an example. This is bigger than you. Raise good men. Raise strong women. Please. The world needs them, now more than ever,” he urged.
It’s not hard to see why Billy’s post has gone totally viral and garnered such a strong reaction.
“Right on the money. I’ve been divorced 17 years and I get along with my ex-wife better now than when we were married…We both agreed not to get into matches in front of the kids, and for the most part it has worked well,” wrote one fellow parent.
Another added to Billy’s advice, writing: “When parents can’t stay married, it’s vital they give their kids permission and opportunity to love the other parent. Just because they’re done with each other, doesn’t mean the kids are.”
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