Originally Posted by broodizt  Hello all,
First of all, I would like to say thank you to everyone who took the time out of their busy schedules to write and try to help me in my hour of desperation. I did not want to do a disservice to either Cassie or Muffin, or cause any harm, damage, impediment to learning or confusion to either Muffin or Cassie.
I find that each and every post has something to offer and I am grateful for the variety of different approaches and ideas.
I have gleaned from these discussions that there is more than one way to handle or manage theses situations, and that I guess each person needs to try various methods for themselves to see what works for them.
I am slowly understanding that there is no absolute right or wrong, that these matters are as much a personal vision and a philosophy as well as a specific individual method of handling situations such as mine. Also involved are the personalities of our little ones- who depend so much upon our love, wisdom and fairness to handle these things in the best way possible for both of them. Whew! That is a TALL order (LOL).
I have not actually reached any conclusions as of yet. Everyone's idea's seem to have some merit. I am trying to put them all together and sift through the pro's and con's of each methodology, or even perhaps combine them when appropriate-having a more eclectic approach. However, in the end, I do think whatever approach, consistency may be more important than any specific method or philosophy-as long as the method leaves both parties their dignity and feeling valued and loved.
Does this sound silly to you, when talking about our babies? Although they are not human, I do believe that they all have a sense of dignity and can feel when they have lost their own dignity and self respect. Maybe as long as whatever we do, we do it with love and patience on a consistant basis, it will be alright. I would be lying to you if I said I have it all worked out. I'm still confused, but I am trying certain methods. I will keep you all updated on my progress. I continue to welcome all who would share sincerely, their knowledge and experiences, to keep posting as I am open to all viewpoints.
Thank you all for everything, you have certainly given me something to think about and a place to start exploring. I don't feel as lost as I was. I appreciate each and every one of you. If not for you, I would be ALONE in this dilemma. Much Love, Shellie |