To the parents: Life is full of uncertainties. An absent father can be very trying situation for a family, which can have far reaching effects if not treated with honesty, integrity and compassion. Regardless of the reason for the absence of a father-divorce, military service, imprisonment or death-it can be a challenge in knowing the right words for the tough questions that children will ask. It is important that we do not let our feelings become our children's burden especially if it is anger, resentmet, or guilt. We should be careful to never speak ill of an absent father. The children should be entitled to feel their own emotions, and have the opportunity to deal with their grief or anger in their own childlike way.
