Madison feels the way many stepchildren can feel. She notices that her stepdad, Jason, won't even hug her. It's not because he is a stoic man, Jason has no problem hugging his two biological sons. Madison can tell that Jason doesn't consider her his "real" daughter despite him legally adopting her after marrying Madison's mom.
But Madison isn't completely innocent. Jason's lack of affection caused her to act out and misbehave. The two were in an endless cycle of negativity.
To rectify the situation, Jo from Supernanny was brought in to help the two clear the air. It was not easy. Jason did not like to be made out into a bad guy.
"I feel sad because you pay attention to the boys and not me," Madison confesses nearly in tears. Jason mocks her request and is condescending. Jo isn't having it. She isn't letting this dad off the hook because she knows that deep down he loves Madison.
"Don't you think it's crazy that she has to ask you whether you can be her father?" Jo asks Jason. "She needs your unconditional love and you need her love, too."
Then, Jo told them not to think about it, not to argue, just to hug each other. To let it linger and embrace one another. The moment was special and cathartic. You could literally see the expression change on Jason's face to pure warmth and love.
It was a turning point.
Jason became more open with Madison, and she was more willing to fulfill her chores. The stepfather began to recognize Madison for the good kid she was, and rewarded her with his trust and affection.
Please SHARE if you believe family has little to do with blood and everything to do with love.
