Father wants to foxtrot at Daddy/Daughter dance
He is not her primary dad -- you are. But if he is good to her and if she is fond of him, then you should actually be brave enough to encourage this relationship. The more supportive and engaged men she has in her corner, the stronger and confident she will be in her own relationships. Having dads around is great for any kid's self-esteem.
Given how attached you are to this event, you can imagine that it was hard for her to convey her decision to you. Respect it.
You have managed to make this sweet dance all about you and an endorsement of your relationship. But it isn't.
No, do not volunteer to chaperone. Your watchful presence could make this already formidable challenge unbearable for her.
Tell your daughter to have a good time, and look forward to next year.
Dear Amy: I have a conundrum that will eventually affect others as DNA testing becomes more prevalent.
I am reaching an end-stage of life. I have multiple children and grandchildren who are adults.
Many years ago, I became aware through a drunken confession that my wife, now deceased, had an affair with a man we knew at that time.
She became pregnant and bore a child who could have been the child of the other man, or my child. From appearances alone, I suspect the other man is the father.
I feel certain that if I am not the father, sometime in the future DNA testing will reveal that fact. I've always treated this child as my own, therefore the truth may be upsetting to many of my family.
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