Reading Randall's post and then seeing Kay's comment on the coffee thread ha**** me hard this morning.  I grew up in a world where the word "step" did not exist.  You were family, no matter what.  When I married Bob he came complete with 2 children. They immediately were family.  Not step kids or step grandkids but were family.  Kecia married into a ready-made family.  Her transition was not as easy as mine.  Her husband had a older child that, to be polite, has severe issues.  We vowed to love this boy and accept him as ours--no matter what.  Each day makes it harder and harder to keep this promise.  There are 3 impressionable kids in the home and they idolize "big brother".  I am asking you this morning to pray that this boy will "see the light" and peace and harmony can be found in this home.  His Dad does all he can to control his son but when the natural mother still has "say-so" and refuses to discipline him--it is a bad mix. 

We love this child because he is a part of our beloved SIL. 

Praying for this young man, You and Your family.  Love from your family will make a huge difference in this childs life.  Have  a Wonderful  BLESSED SONday my friend.
Love,
Michele

You got prayers doll!! When my dh and I married I came with a son, 7 years old. Being imperfect, I was carrying my second son. We are a family. No steps, no halves. My boys would box somebodies ears if you try to say they are anything but brothers. It has not always been easy. My dh's parents and 1 of his brothers did not readily accept my Dustin. Their loss though. Anyhow, I will remember you all today.

I understand totally Gwen.  When I married John, he had two children with him. Their mom didnot want them.  They had horrible issues.  However, through many tears and correction and love, my daughter truly became my daughter.  The son, well...he decided that he wanted no part of us when he got older.  Sharon is mine and always will be.  Never have we ever referred to each other as "step"....God gave her to me.