Truth, Courage, and a Judge Who Listened

Zaden lifted his gaze to the judge, his voice soft but steady. He explained that he loved both his parents deeply, but he didn’t want to be pushed into choosing sides or repeating things that didn’t feel true. He said he wanted honesty, kindness, and a home where he could simply be himself without worry. His words weren’t angry — they were sincere, brave, and unexpectedly wise.

The judge thanked him with genuine warmth before dismissing him to wait outside with a court staff member. Once the door closed behind him, the judge turned back to us, her expression softened. She reminded us that custody wasn’t about “winning” a child — it was about shaping a life where the child could find peace. And in that moment, I understood something profound: sometimes the smallest voices reveal the deepest truths, and sometimes the bravest thing a child can do is speak honestly about their own heart.