It’s felt like a long road to where I am now. Yet looking back, I see how every single footstep has perfectly led me to my work supporting divorced and separated parents.
Born and raised in a small rural village in Jamaica, close to picturesque Port Antonio, I was the middle child in a blended family of nine. Both my mom, a housewife, and my dad, a farmer, had a daughter from previous relationships, as well as five children together. Of course, back then I knew nothing about terms like “blended family.”
I also knew from an early age that I was destined for more and that my family’s poverty wasn’t going to stop me. I was going to use my gifts, my intellect, and my drive to make a difference in this world — although I soon discovered that some stormy seas lay ahead that I would have to navigate first.
Despite doing very well academically, by the end of high school, life had taken an unexpected turn when I became a teen mom. This early introduction to parenting was not what I had imagined for myself. But despite the extra challenge, I never gave up hope.
I told myself that although the path ahead might be a little longer and harder, I would still make it to my destination. Clinging to a strong sense of purpose and the loving support of family, friends, and more than a few Good Samaritans along the way, I did make it. By age 30, I was a lawyer. Just five years later I was accepted to fill the post of Resident Magistrate (now Parish Judge). Yes, I had “made it,” but little did I know that this would be when my real education would start.
Confronted with the problem, the big question now was: where do I begin? How can parents who are divided both physically and mentally learn the best ways to work together for the sake of their own and their family’s wellbeing?
**Cue lightbulb moment** Teach them!
My 12-plus years of experience in family law led me to this moment and this deep realization: my life’s purpose was not family law but family restoration.
The lifelong consequences of a family war and the painful damage that fighting creates far outweigh any benefits of “winning” a court case. Of course, there are situations where people may need to take action through court proceedings, but it should always be a last resort. The vast majority of disputes can be resolved in more peaceful and effective ways without lengthy and damaging court cases.
It’s my mission to arm parents with the best information and guidance to co-parent after a divorce or separation. If that is you, please know that there is light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how difficult things feel now. You are not alone. If you would like to learn more about my services and how I can help you, click here.
“Get the help you need. Become the parent you can.”