[Migs]

I'm a 17 year old male who is a senior in HS. In about 2 weeks my father and I are going to meet up with each other after not seeing each other for almost 6-7 years. My parents divorced when I was 5 and I ended up with my mom while my brother (7 at the time) stayed with my dad. I did not see them again until I was in middle school and I actually wanted to see them. Well, if I think about it now, I may have been excited to meet my brother more than my father. My dad and brother kept in contact with us through the years by calling or emailing once in a while and we talk about how our lives are going so it's not like I have no experience of talking with him.
But right now, I don't feel very excited about meeting my father again. I have very mixed feelings about it; I'm happy that I'm going to see him again but at the same time I'm sure if I want to meet him. Maybe it's because of the trauma of the divorce at a young age. Or maybe it's because it's the fact that it will just be me and him together for a few days and I feel like it will be very awkward for me. There is going to be a wedding at my dads side of the family and he wanted me to come; my mother agreed so I have a chance to spend time with my dad. I don't know what to say or do after seeing him again without making it an awkward meeting.

[Harley47]

Minus the meeting, you sound a lot like me.

If it's awkward, understand that it won't be just you. He'll likely be...reserved, isn't quite the word, but you have to "learn" each other first, you know? It'll take a little time, but I'm sure you two will quickly warm up to each other. I wouldn't spend so much time sweating it, and just enjoy the reunion.

[Leed]

Hi ~ Like Harley said, I wouldn't sweat it too much. Some of the time will be spent getting ready for, and at the wedding so that's good. Then hopefully your Dad will have some things planned for you to do.

If not, just talk about what your life has been like, and what you've been doing, although you've probably already told him that on the phone, right? Oh well, you two will find plenty to talk about, I'm sure. Just be yourself - that's the most important thing. Just be YOU. And don't sweat it, like Harley said. You'll be FINE! Try to enjoy the time with your Dad. And if you have any resentments about him, don't let him know it -- because YOU don't know the whole story behind the divorce! There's always two sides, you know.

God bless and have a good time. Hugs, Lee