Perhaps Douglas is so frustrated because these are accusations made that are unfounded , did anyone think that here?  It states things in those letters, but they could be untrue, and sometimes divorce becomes so bitter that people DO stoop to such low levels and fling dirt. I have never agreed with corporal punishment as far as children are concerned---AT ALL- CAH or no CAH.  But isn't that the best way to hurt someone who has hurt you?  Stop them from seeing their children/child at all cost?  I don't know much about Douglas's  or Sharon's situation, or the reasons around it, but it seems like he is not just being judged in a court of law but also now on a message board designed for support.  First of all Diane with her post on page two and the unsavoury things said in that.  Is it any wonder he feels frustrated?  Perhaps we should put ourselves in other's shoes before we judge.  He's either pretty new to the message board or not one to use it often, and perhaps when support is needed we should be considering just that, not insensitive as Diane did.   I don't remember there being any sign on the door that said we cannot discuss issues without other's treating us shoddily. These things happen unfortunately and should  be discussed alongside all other issues, otherwise they do have a tendency to get dragged out unfortunately, as someone is always hurt.  If you cannot support or give constructive advice, perhaps it's better not to comment at all.  reading the boards messages for the last few days, I'm amazed by some of the responses.    Divorce is a fact of life and just hope it never clouds your lives.  Seems patently obvious to me that the "new thing" is for doctors and parents to do these things and not even consider the child and what he want's in all that.

JH