“Time, whose tooth gnaws away at everything else, is powerless against truth.” – Thomas Huxley
The above quote has become one of my favorites because I am certain that, in the end, the truth will be revealed. I also know that some lies are served up so consistently and convincingly that it can be difficult to see what is true through the thick fog of deception, and there is no way of knowing how much time may pass before the truth is clearly visible. It was for seven long years that such a fog succeeded in alienating my son from me.
My story is not uncommon. I know many parents who have either lost – or fear losing – their children to a lie, and it is for this reason I have chosen to share this story.
After separating from my abusive husband, it was not long before he went on the offensive. He began to offer up a fictitious history about our marriage, to plant seeds of doubt about my character, my commitment and my faith in the minds of those willing to listen. He also used the time he spent with our four children to attempt to undermine my credibility in their young eyes. Though he urged secrecy from them, they would sometimes hesitantly pose questions to me regarding damning falsehoods their father had shared about me. The woman he described to our kids was someone I did not know, and there were occasions when I was put in the awkward position of having to correct our kids’ understanding. It was heartbreaking to know that our kids had been put into a position where they had to choose whom or what to believe. For the most part, I felt confident that the significant contrast between our former home life and the new life we had come to appreciate was evidence enough.
Our second-born eldest son, Kyle, had always been his father’s favorite. Kyle never sought the title of “the chosen one,” nor was his status a secret among the children. It was never discussed; it just was. So it was no surprise that, after the divorce was final, when Kyle was about 13, their father began to spend most of his free time with him. And even though the essential battles were over, another insidious battle continued to rage. Kyle’s father used their time together to confer upon our young son how many ways I had failed him and what a poor wife I had been, to win Kyle over and to pit him against me. Almost every time he spent a day or two with his father, Kyle often returned home hostile and battle-ready. At times I would try to assuage his obvious stress, but rather than talk, he preferred to argue. Knowing what was going on behind the scenes, I chose to acknowledge the hardships of the divorce and reminded him that he didn’t have to choose one parent over the other; he could have both.
My efforts to reach him didn’t make much of a difference, but at least he knew how I felt about the situation. I also recognized that his dad was probably more fun. Their time together was spent watching football and their favorite movies over pizza and soda. They might spend an afternoon shopping for CDs or listening to music or attending an occasional concert. When Kyle returned home, it was my job to make sure he did his homework and his chores and brushed his teeth before heading to bed. The contrast didn’t bother me; I knew the kids needed both of us, and I accepted my role as the un-fun one. And let’s face it; the harsh reality of Monday through Friday is generally going to be a tougher gig than the simple pleasures of eating junk food and sleeping in.
We still had our own family movie nights and birthday parties and took day trips and mini-vacations, but Kyle often chose to excuse himself from outings and events with any of us his father sarcastically referred to as “those people.” Over time, the hostility Kyle exhibited toward me increased. He was not only ready for a fight, but he seemed to relish any opportunity to argue, put me down, or throw his weight around. It was as though Kyle had assumed the role of his abusive father, and while I sought to maintain discipline and provide a healthy contrast, of utmost concern was that Kyle might become just like his dad.
At times Kyle’s anger would erupt and he would point a finger of condemnation at me for divorcing his dad. “You had no cause to divorce him. If it wasn’t for you we’d still be a family! Why did you do it?” he demanded to know. Everything in me wanted to spill the truth – the emotional beatings I had taken, his father’s heartbreaking lapses of integrity, and all I had endured in an effort to keep our family whole. But the sordid truth was more than any young man needed to know. I held my tongue and told Kyle he just needed to trust that I did what I believed was best for our family. But that was not good enough for Kyle, and his resentment toward me continued to simmer.
After I remarried, Kyle tried to maintain his position as the new man of the house, but it wasn’t long before my husband was compelled by Kyle’s abusive tendencies to put Kyle in his place. Kyle saved his outbursts for times when Doug wasn’t home, but now we all had backing when we needed it. One fall evening, Kyle decided he was being treated unfairly after he had a bad day, and I had the audacity to remind him to empty the dishwasher. A couple of hours later he was gone – to live with his dad. There was no yelling or slamming of doors. No note, no warning, no explanation.
Crushed by his decision, I pondered at that moment whether I had lost him forever. I could only pray it wasn’t so. I had to let Kyle go and pray that he would discover the truth on his own – that he would not choose to follow in his father’s footsteps.
I didn’t hear from Kyle for weeks. He invited me to coffee one evening, and we talked only of ordinary things, daily routines and school and work and his siblings. A part of me wanted to implore him to come home, but I held my head high and did not cry or plead or ask why. When we parted I hugged him and confirmed my love – just thankful that he hadn’t shut me out completely.
As the months passed we got together from time to time. During our conversations, Kyle never complained about his father, never shared anything significant about their life together, and I didn’t ask.
Then, at one of our meetings, Kyle told me he was ready to come home. But the reality was that the rest of us had come to enjoy our home without him living there. We now had a home where there was no drama, no hostility, no ongoing angry outbursts. The rest of us had come to relish the peace we now enjoyed. So I told Kyle that we weren’t ready for him to come home. He was clearly shocked at my response. I’m sure he assumed that I would eagerly welcome him home like nothing had happened and we’d pick up where we left off. But no.
When we parted that day, he was more somber than I had seen him in the past and probably a little hurt. But I needed to make sure he understood what coming home meant not just to him, but to the whole family; that as much as he clung to his perception of being right, he had still been wrong. I needed to know that he fully understood that his behaviors needed to change.
What I did not know was that the fog had been lifting in Kyle’s life, even if he wasn’t yet prepared to admit it. Late one night a few days later the phone rang. When I answered, Kyle was on the other end of the line crying and hysterical. He said that he had to leave his dad’s house, that his dad had been raging and cursing at him, calling him names and had kept him from leaving – and that it wasn’t the first time. He begged me to come and get him and said that if I didn’t he would run away.
I knew I couldn’t leave him in an abusive situation, so I asked him where his dad was, and Kyle told me that he was asleep. I conferred with Doug and we agreed that we would meet with the other kids in the morning, discuss the situation, and then I would call him and let him know what would be done. He begged and told me ‘no,’ that I had to go pick him up right then or he was going to run away. In spite of the stress of the situation, I calmly said, “Kyle, this is your moment. You need to decide right now whether you are going to trust me or not. All I need you to say right now is, ‘Okay, Mom.’” Many long seconds passed while I prayed with all my heart that he would make the right decision, until he finally said the words I needed to hear: “Okay, Mom.”
The following morning, we all quickly agreed that Kyle needed to come home, with the understanding that his behavior toward the entire family had to be grounded in respect. I made the call to Kyle, he agreed to our terms, and all five of us immediately piled into our van to go get Kyle and bring him and his things home.
After moving back home Kyle continued to try to have a relationship with his father, who still worked to fill Kyle’s head with half-truths and untruths. But little by little Kyle began to see the inconsistencies for himself. He witnessed the self-centered lifestyle his father had chosen, overheard him boasting of his salacious activities while he and I were married, and ultimately became the new target of his father’s abuse.
It wasn’t until Kyle was 20 when, on a hot summer afternoon, I returned from work to find him seated on the ground outside the front door of our home, his back against the wall, conversing with Doug. Kyle was obviously distraught, and my heart fought against fear of what might have happened to him. As I approached, my husband told me that Kyle needed to talk to me and went inside.
I took Doug’s place and timidly asked him what was going on. Kyle finally looked up at me and spoke. “I’m so sorry, Mom,” he said through his tears. “Why,” I asked. “What happened?”
“I was wrong, Mom,” he spilled out. “I know that it wasn’t your fault. For seven years I was mean to you and the rest of the family. And all this time I was wrong.” We both rose to our feet, and I tightly held the son I thought I had lost so many years before. I told him that I loved him and that everything was going to be okay. Kyle wrapped his arms around me and cried the tears of a painful truth finally realized, tears of a guilt borne of ignorance, tears of humility and sorrow for all that had been lost – honest tears that melted away the cruel wall of deception that had separated us… for
seven
long
years.
Cindy Burrell Copyright 2013 All Rights Reserved
Hi Cindy,
I want to thank you for all of your help from before. I have a new question- has your son, Kyle, written anything about this from his perspective? Did he journal it/willing to share? Maybe if there were articles from kids on THEIR journey to realizing what was happening/what the truth was – maybe those articles would help other kids see through the fog. Kind of like I saw through the fog when I found your website a couple of years ago- it was from a stranger who knew so much about what I was going through- it made me wake up to what was happening so it would stop. It would be great if he did, or if some kid did- that it could be shared and maybe prevent such a long period of awakening for other teens caught up in this mess.
Hello, Erika.
I had to smile when I read your post, as Kyle and I have been having this very conversation. He has expressed to me his desire to share what he went through and hopes that he will have opportunities to reach others – both parents and their kids – in similar situations. I will gladly relay your message to Kyle and perhaps one of these days very soon, his insights will also be available here.
Thank you for taking the time to write on this subject. I also appreciating knowing that this outreach has been of benefit to you in your journey. Feel free to write again as you are inclined.
All the best,
Cindy
One more request- if he does (Praying he does and soon! Even if it’s a short blurb- heck, that might be more appealing to teens anyway), it would be really helpful to format it to a meme or something on to facebook- some kind of social pool. I’m not sure how else these “kids in the fog” might otherwise come across it. Getting things into the peripheral of say, a 15 year old, might be more easily found on social media. (and if he does get around to it- if he has suggestions for the empath parent or if you have suggestions for what else can be done while the wait is going on- that would be really appreciated.) Thank you again, Cindy (and Kyle too)
Any chance Kyle has worked on this?
Hello, Erika. Looking back at when you and I last “conversed,” I was surprised to see that you returned. I appreciate the follow-up.
Although Kyle had mentioned putting something together relating to his experience years ago, that was a very painful (regrettable) time for him, and I think he may prefer not to hash it out again. He also has a very busy life now, and I’m not sure he would even have the time. But … I will gladly mention your comment to him. I think he will appreciate knowing of your interest and will see if he has the time and desire to post something here. If so, I will gladly post it!
I hope things are good in your life. Thank you for taking the time to write!
All the best,
Cindy
Hello again, Erika.
I have mentioned to Kyle your interest in his view of his experience with his dad. He is not much of a writer, but he said that if you’d like to contact him directly, he would be willing to call you (or you him), and you could ask him any questions you might have. If you’re still interested, please email me at cindyburrell1@gmail.com and I will forward you his contact information from there.
All the best,
Cindy
Hi Cindy,
A friend sent me your post. It has encouraged me greatly. I have 2 adult daughters and although they didn’t give me much trouble when they were young, maybe the abuse was still fresh but now they chose to believe that he wasn’t that bad and has somehow changed to this wonderful father.
My youngest daughter , chose to disinvited me to her wedding in preference to her father and the woman he was having an affair with years before the marriage broke up.
It’s hurting and after reading your post, I know it’s time to let go and let her find her truth.
Thank you.
Hello, Karen. I’m so sorry to read of your situation. It is truly heartbreaking, and I can wholly understand your pain and wonder that your daughters cannot see the truth at this point in time. I’m sure you did your best you could under the circumstances and it makes no sense that things have taken such a strange turn. Nevertheless, I have to believe that, as you are steadfast, the day will come when your daughters will see the truth and appreciate all you did for them.
Hang in there.
Thank you for taking the time to write, and feel free to write again as you have need.
Cindy
Thank you Cindy
Thank you for writing this piece. It’s timeless and you give me faith for the future.
The younger of my 2 boys is 11 and already the target of my soon-to-be ex-husband to provide him emotional validation and support (as he is no longer getting it from me) and to convince him what a horrible person I am.
My ex left me because “he knew i didn’t love or respect and neglected” him; more realistically I believed could never live up to his expectations When he mentioned moving back 4 weeks later, I said not until we work to resolve our problems from both sides.
He disagreed, talking no responsibility for his actions and instead told my son “I love your Mum but she doesn’t love me, I want to move home but she doesn’t want me to”.
My baby’s mind is being confused and poisoned by this and what you described rings true – any time he comes home from his dads, he is antagonistic and difficult to reason with and wants a fight.
I have faith that time will allow my son to realise my unconditional love.
I need to show this to him always, despite the pain I feel when considering the possibility of him moving in with his dad, and the damage that being responsible for his father’s emotional stability could cause.
Thank you again
Hello, Annie.
I’m sorry it has taken me so long to respond. I was grieved to read your story, although sadly I am not surprised. It is truly tragic that abusers use their own children as pawns in their cruel game. On the other hand, Annie, know that your life will provide the contrast between your son’s father’s world and yours. I pray that your son will begin to see the differences in life, demeanor, choices and the air in your home and trust he will realize that you are safe. It is terrible that he is being put in that position, and ultimately he will have to choose whom he wishes to emulate.
Another aspect is basic self-protection, a belief that we must choose between being predator or prey. Your son has seen the effects on the prey, and oftentimes kids decide that it is safer to align themselves with the predator, hoping to become an ally rather than an enemy. But there is a third option – protector. That is your role, and I truly hope he comes to see how powerful that identity can be.
Feel free to write here or from my “Contact Cindy” link, which is private. I will do what I can to help or direct you. And I also provide personal coaching if you ever feel like you really need to talk to someone. You can find more information on the website if you are interested. Yes, it is fee-based, but my clients have been surprised at how much can be accomplished – even in a single hour. I don’t promote this service, but I want you to know it is available.
You are more than welcome to write as you have need.
Wishing you well,
Cindy
Cindy,
Thank you for this post. I have four children. All we’re older, but living at home when we split. My husband has my boys totally brainwashed. Only one of the older boys, my oldest lives with me most of the time when home from college. The middle son was gradually convinced to live with his dad after a year. I rarely see him. My youngest, still in high school, I actually homeschool and had full time. My husband convinced him to lie to the court mediator and he now is with me every other week. I feel he is turning in to my husband. My oldest, a daughter lives with me while finishing her credential and has no contact with her father. She is the only one who can really see him for who he is. The others believe I’ve somehow “made it up” even though they’ve experienced his rages all their lives. I’ve come to believe they either think it’s normal or blocked out things. I just don’t know. The boys range from 17 to 23! I’m astounded at the power their dad has over them.
My worst fear, especially for the two younger boys ( my oldest son is quite sensitive like me and my husband plays the sympathy card with him) is that they will become abusers like their dad! I see so many of his traits already.
How long O Lord!
I pray for them constantly. It’s been two years since we split. Do you think my boys are too old to have their eyes opened?
Cindy,
Thank you for this post. I have four children. All we’re older, but living at home when we split. My husband has my boys totally brainwashed. Only one of the older boys, my oldest lives with me most of the time when home from college. The middle son was gradually convinced to live with his dad after a year. I rarely see him. My youngest, still in high school, I actually homeschool and had full time. My husband convinced him to lie to the court mediator and he now is with me every other week. I feel he is turning in to my husband. My oldest, a daughter lives with me while finishing her credential and has no contact with her father. She is the only one who can really see him for who he is. The others believe I’ve somehow “made it up” even though they’ve experienced his rages all their lives. I’ve come to believe they either think it’s normal or blocked out things. I just don’t know. The boys range from 17 to 23! I’m astounded at the power their dad has over them.
My worst fear, especially for the two younger boys ( my oldest son is quite sensitive like me and my husband plays the sympathy card with him) is that they will become abusers like their dad! I see so many of his traits already.
How long O Lord!
I pray for them constantly. It’s been two years since we split. Do you think my boys are too old to have their eyes opened?
Thank you for your answer! Blessings.
Hello, Stephanie. I am so grieved to read of all you have been through and for what your children are still experiencing.
Ultimately, our children have to choose what they are willing to see and the kind of people they wish to emulate – and become. I want you to know that you are the safe place for them. You are the rock, their true example, and the one they know they can count on. Although your husband has succeeded in getting his way through lies and manipulation, I’m sure all of your children know the truth – and fear him. Standing up to a wicked man whom they also want to believe in and earn love from is not an easy thing.
I think your prayers and your example are more powerful than you think. I would also encourage you to establish firm boundaries with them. No abuse or disrespect from them in your home. If they want to be idiots, they will have to do it somewhere else. It’s not cruel, it’s wise to show them what love are respect should look like. And it’s okay to lovingly tell them the truth, that they get the choose the kind of people they want to be, and they will also have to live with the consequences of their choices.
Hold your head high, Stephanie, and stay the course. I pray that, in time, they will see the stark contrast between their father and you and make the right and best choice.
Write anytime… You can email me privately at cindyburrell@hurtbylove.com
Cindy