One of our loyal readers has reached out to us with a deeply personal story and is looking for advice on a challenging situation in her life. She’s facing a delicate balance between her own happiness and her responsibilities as a mother.
Read her story below, and let us know your thoughts—she’s eager for advice from those who might have faced similar challenges.

“I divorced my first husband when our daughter was very young. After that, I wasn’t interested in any new relationships for a long time—I was completely disillusioned with men. Ten years passed before I met him—the man of my dreams. At first, we kept our relationship low-key, but recently he proposed, and I accepted. I’ve thrown myself into wedding planning and asked my ex-mother-in-law to take in my 13-year-old daughter during this time.

They get along wonderfully, and it even seems like my daughter enjoys being at her grandma’s more than with me. For the first time, I can focus on my own happiness. I dedicated my youth to raising and providing for my daughter. Her father didn’t even pay child support. Maybe it’s time for his family to step up and contribute too?

I asked my daughter if she’d like to stay with her grandma a bit longer, but she didn’t really respond, and I sensed it might’ve hurt her feelings. I love my daughter, but it doesn’t feel fair that my ex lives life on his own terms while I have to sacrifice my personal happiness.

We talked about it, and while she didn’t show much excitement, she didn’t object either. Still, I got the impression that she’s bothered by it. I don’t want her to feel abandoned. Of course, I’ll bring her back soon, but for now, I want to build a life with the person I love and focus on myself a bit.

How can I help my daughter understand my decision so she doesn’t feel hurt?”