My ex called one day and asked if he could put child support on hold for a few months.

“My wife needs a new car,” he said. “You don’t really need the money anyway.”

I let him believe I was okay with it.

The following week, when I brought our son for his visit, I handed him an envelope.

“If you’re not going to contribute financially,” I said evenly, “I’ll handle things another way.” Inside wasn’t a bill or a confrontation—just a clearly written letter explaining the revised parenting schedule I planned to submit to the court.

The proposal reduced his visitation until he could reliably help meet our son’s needs.

At first, he looked puzzled. Then his expression shifted to surprise, as if the weight of his request was finally registering. I didn’t argue or scold him.

I simply stood there, calm and firm.v Continue reading…