Hi Tina,
I believe I understand your feelings about being caught in the middle and feeling pressure to choose sides. I just FLAT refuse to do it, period. If that angers both sides, so be it! I'm done with that shit!
I remember when I was nine and my parents were splitting after a particularly nasty row. I had been gone spending the day with my JW cousins. I come home to my Mom, crying, holding ice, wrapped in cloth, on her face and my Dad packing to leave. I can't remember my reaction, if I had any at all. What I DO remember, is my parents asking me who I wanted to live with. Of course, if I chose one, I rejected the other. I felt like I had the whole world on my shoulders. I COULDN'T CHOOSE. After a long pause, I just burst out crying. My Mom was closest to me, so I just threw myself on her. Not because I chose her, but because I felt such despair. However, they both took it as if I had chosen my Mom. As long as I live, I will never forget the hurt look on my Dad's face.
When I look back now, unfortunately for me, their separation was a short one.
This discussion board has helped me in many ways. It has a place in my life right now. Some day that may end. I don't know. I step into it for brief periods to learn, vent, and support. And I hopefully, laugh a bit too. I step out of it and pursue those things I find meaningful (and some of things not so meaningful) in my "real" life.
I think what else that is frustrating is that negative labels are put on people by those that have absolutely NO IDEA what is going on in the lives of those they are labeling. If a few people have decided that they have become mortal enemies on these board, then duke it out with each other and whoever else wants to get involved. If I decided I want to be involved I will. But, most likely, I won't. Discussion board battles of personalities is not something that is of vital importance to me. I would much rather read a book to my son, thankyouverymuch.
Anyway, I do hope you still post here. I always liked Puffsrule and hope that she isn't completely discarded.
Andee