I’ve never shared my son’s journey into care, because that’s his story to tell if he ever chooses. He must have the right to keep things private.
But, of course, I have shared things about our experiences through my blog. I’ve had to be really careful what I write about; there are certain things that need to be off-limits, but others that aren’t. I have to be guided by what I feel is right, and what common sense tells me the natural boundary should be.
My guiding philosophy is a simple one; if my son decides to read my blog when he’s older, what will he make of it? Will he think, “Dad does go on a bit, doesn’t he?” I’ll happily take that critique, mostly because it’s true, but if he’s thinking that, then he won’t be thinking that I’ve gone too far down a particular path.
Being mindful of my son’s privacy is vital. When he wants to connect with social media – as I presume he will, like the majority of his friends – I will have a conversation with him about that. There are people on Facebook that it’s not right he connects with, and I need to make sure he understands why.
My son, if you do ever decide to read this blog, let me direct a comment towards you; every decision I have taken on your behalf has been based on love, a desire to keep you safe, and a desire to give you as normal a life as possible. This blog might give you some insight into what brought us together; you were wanted, and you still are, no matter what journey we have been on. I’m proud of you, and I love you very much.