I know all too well of the impact of being estranged or alienated. Justin, the biological father of the killer in the recent Tumbler Ridge tragedy, was, and according to his statement, not based on his desire to not be part of his child's life. Too often we praise single parents for the hard work they do - what if, that single parent never let the other one in (Unless due to legitimate reasons such as ongoing physical and mental abuse)? Family law in my opinion, needs to start paying attention to these situations and in my experience, our many calls for reform of how we manage family challenges and systems, are being ignored in Canada and many other parts of the world. Some countries are starting to get that mental health issues, start with the parents and/or the environment or dynamic they create. My heart and tears, as well as my anger and sadness goes out to all those impacted by this tragedy. I can't begin to imagine what you are going though.

Yes, these are the similar to the famous words of Bad Bunny. With the recent mass murder in Tumbler Ridge, BC, Canada, I am reminded of how we all can contribute to a world with more love, acceptance, support, and awareness of mental health so that tragedy's like this one, end.

Fear = Cytokines

Cytokines = Inflammation

Inflammation leads to ...

We all have it. What is it creating. I see a divided world where we are being made to believe that we are more important than others. We need to protect ourselves and if we don't, shit is going to hit the fan. What is the consequence? This episode is about the importance of critical thinking in a world where it is easy to succumb to our biases.

...and yes, I am angry about this. My plea is to focus on the facts, not the story.

Almost 9 years of no contact with my son - why? Some of us are influenced in a false narrative which is addicting and serves us in many ways. Look at what is going on politically as an example. Sadly, these 'stories' can put relationships at risk and this is one reason why alienation occurs. Today I share some of my insights!

Correction: My son was 4, not 2, when we separated.

In this episode I review a book that was so captivating, engaging, and enlightening, that I read it in 2 days. The book is titled 'The courage to be disliked' by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga. This is my favorite book and highly recommend reading it. As someone who likes to please others, which causes suffering, I now have tools to be okay with being disliked.

Being an alienated parent is not easy, especially when lies are being spread about you on social media. We may be hurting, but imagine what the child is feeling and what the hate may be causing them. As an alienated parent - we are strong, know the truth, and can still live our best life without being on the same journey as your child.

I have learned a great deal about living my best life by learning and growing from challenges I have faced. Some of our fears are valid and many are due to the negative story we tell ourselves. This episode is about using these moments to create a better and more powerful self - where we cause our desired future based on new and improved actions.