The feeling of wanting to...

[emkana]

... protect your children from sadness.
It's so difficult sometimes, isn't it?
Dd1's best friend's parents are in the process of splitting up. This might lead to them moving out of the area. I know that if this happens dd1 will be devastated... but there's nothing I can do.

just me then?

it is unfortunately unrealistic.....but a good place to start from....

trying to keep them happy & secure is hard ...but shielding them from reality is not possible...but yes, i never want my kids to be hurt......or sad...