Since Mother's Day is coming up it is natural for us to think about the mothers of our children. Before we can be good fathers to our children we must learn how to treat their mothers. Theodore Hesburgh said, "The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother", and there is no doubt it makes an impact. If we make disrespectful and belittling comments toward her the children will not respect her as they should.
I love to joke and sometimes get carried away when my wife is trying to be serious. I am noticing that my son does the same thing. He is not respectful of when it is time to stop joking and be serious because he has seen me carry on long after my wife was frustrated. What are you doing to the mother of your children that is causing or going to cause problems? Do something every day to improve your relationship with her because it is the foundation of your relationship with your children.
Some will say that they are not married to the mother of their children, and there are millions in this situation, but it does not change the truth of the importance of that relationship. You may be divorced, or have children from before marriage, and certainly you can't be a husband to someone that you are not married to and living with, however, we are to love all, even enemies (some fall in this category) and treat everyone with the respect demanded by God who created them in his image. By mistreating that ex, you are not only hurting them and yourself, you are hurting the innocent children. You may never have a good relationship with them, but you can do your part to live at peace for your children's sake.