AITA for telling my son "too bad" about having to do a 30-day jail sentence?

Either-Junket-7454 1292 comments

A father’s hope for his son’s future clashed painfully with harsh realities and differing dreams.

Despite his efforts and concerns, the choices made during those pivotal teenage years led Cody down a path of lost potential and drifting away from the world his father envisioned for him.

Caught between love and disappointment, the family’s story is a raw reflection of how easily good intentions can unravel.

It’s a stark reminder of the fragile line between protection and freedom, and the heartbreaking consequences when that balance is lost.

AITA for telling my son "too bad" about having to do a 30-day jail sentence?
‘AITA for telling my son "too bad" about having to do a 30-day jail sentence?’

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The Internet Sounded Off — and It Got Loud:

Support, sarcasm, and strong words — the replies covered it all. This one definitely got people talking.

The original poster (OP) is grappling with profound disappointment and frustration stemming from his eldest son's repeated substance a**se issues, which he feels were predictable based on earlier choices regarding schooling.

The central conflict lies between the OP's desire to enforce accountability, exemplified by letting his son face consequences for his latest felony charge, and the desperate pleas from both his son and ex-wife for continued financial intervention.

Given the pattern of recidivism following prior financial and legal assistance, is the OP ethically obligated to continue funding interventions for his adult son who repeatedly fails to adhere to legal agreements, or is allowing him to face the full consequences of his actions the necessary step for long-term accountability?