Hi, Candy.
First off, just tell your dad. One thing most children don't realize is that when their parents throw a fit over things like this, they're disappointed of course but not completely with you. I'm 36 and I hyave two daughters, one is four years old and the other three. When us parents hear of the failings our children get into, one of the reasons we get mad is because we were so powerless to help you and that we weren't able to do anything to shiled you from pain. Understand that if you will be willing to to take a bullet for your baby, your folks will be willing to do the same for you. It's just they don't know what type of bullet they have to take for you this time.
If your dad is anything like me, he'd be dying inside now because he is so proud of you and thinks that his little baby girl is in so much pain. Understand also that most dads don't know how to show their affection and this may be a problem for him just to show you that though he's disappointed, he still loves you so much.
This is such a difficult time for all of you. Be patient for all of you.
You're just 17. Show your dad that this baby is such a big blessing. You can start travelling with your baby in what, two-three years? You'll just be twenty by then. No big deal. You can't think that the world is bearing down on you. This is really the start of a new life and what you're going through is nothing but \"birth pangs\".
Whatever you do, DO NOT GET AN ABORTION. This situation of yours has moved away from being an issue of choice. There is an innocent life inside you that you have to respect and, frankly, you've been given to take care of. There are so many there who can give genuine help to you without hurting your baby.
Lastly, don't get the abortion for your own sake. My wife got one a long time ago because when she got pregnant with our second baby, I was with somebody else (asshole that I am, I know) and didn't want another baby that could ruin what I thought was the relationship that I wanted.
Everytime that I see a ten to eleven year old girl, I know that I'm supposed to have one and that my two daughters and my twelve year old son are supposed to have another sibling. I have regretted that decision and so does the woman who bore all my chidlren -- my wife of now seven years. All we can do know is pray for our daughter and honor her with the life that our family lives.
Please stand your ground and keep away from abortion. You're doing the right thing. Your dad will eventually understand. Just bear the fact that he will be angry but angry at himself and scared for you.
Take care. You will be fine.
Erick
