I was having a casual conversation with someone today about step-parents. She stated that her husband is “not allowed to discipline her son as his step-dad” and I said whatever works for y’all, but as for me and my house…my husband is the adult and parent. We discussed what discipline will look like for each of our children and I trust my husband to do what’s best…otherwise I wouldn’t have married him. Sometimes the world likes to put an asterisk next to the word parent when it’s preceded by step. But God never does. Although we have 4 children, Rick is only “technically” Zariyah’s step-father. When Rick met Zariyah, she was just 4 years old. Small hands, big eyes, and a heart that had already seen more than most. He didn’t come in trying to replace anyone. He didn’t demand a title. He simply showed up…and kept showing up. From day one, he chose her. He loved her without conditions, without hesitation, without needing biology to validate his role. He prayed over her, protected her, ...