Last fall I had lunch with a dear friend who painfully shared some stories about what was happening in her home. Her husband was having some serious issues with anger and control and as a result, lashed out frequently at their then 7-year old daughter.

My heart was so heavy that day that when I returned home, I wrote “My Daddy is Mean,” a children’s story. It was for my friend, her family and it was also for me. Partly my story. The writing has been hugely cathartic for me. It also provided a great conversation point for my friend to talk with her daughter about her feelings. Eventually, those conversations led my friend to get help and take measures to protect her children.

My prayer is that this story will be used by God to give parents and children words to express feelings and fears, and begin difficult conversations. May God bring His healing and restoration, as only He can do.

Download “My Daddy is Mean” by clicking here. My only request is that if you like the story, you will send others to this link rather than forwarding the story yourself.

And if you have any feedback or if this story is meaningful to you, please leave a comment and let me know.