[karen z]

You have gotten some incredibly wise advice from some very wonderful women on the board. More than a few of us have been where you are. Listen to the wonderful (and often funny) advice from such wise women. And, despite the tears (many of us have shed more tears than we can possibly tell you), remember to take care of yourself and your son in all the ways you CAN. You said "what value do I have to him in being his Mom!" Part of your value to him (other than being a good person to him and to others and teaching him by example) is that YOU ARE HIS MOM. NO ONE ELSE IN THE WORLD IS HIS MOM OR CAN EVER BE HIS MOM. THAT IS HUGE!! He is a major blessing and joy to you and no matter what else is going on in your life......(and believe me we all HAVE been where you are in one way or the other and many in the exact same way)>>>>>>>>>focus on being a good person, a good mom (you do not need money to do that) and take care of yourself. And those who say that your son will "get it" (if he doesn't now) are right. He is taking in everything and he WILL get it. Be tough, take care of yourself, try to not "fight against" things as much (easier said than done but I have found it is helpful) and be kind and generous of spirit to your son.