Short story - my wife served me with divorce papers last week. We have a 3, 4, and 5 year old little cuties. These kids are my world. About a month ago, my wife requested a protection of order against me. I cannot be within 1,000 feet of her or her residence. I have since moved out. Please note, in my state, you only have to feel in danger to have a protection of order issued (no evidence of actual violence, abuse, or damage is required).

The court ordered that I can see my kids every other weekend. Yesterday, my wife refused to release the kids to me but instead decided to close the window curtains and ignore me. I call the police and they talked with my wife. She felt my car seats were unsafe (even though I had copies of the state requirements and the car seat manufacturer's information). The police noted that they couldn't force my wife to release the child if she felt unsafe.

As a result, I left my wife's residence and I bought new car seats. I called the police again to escort me to my wife's residence. Of course, my wife wasn't there. I talked to to police officer and he said that my wife is being ridiculous and just playing games to keep me from my kids. Also, he noted to keep good documents to show to the custody judge that my wife is "being a fucking cunt" (actual off-record words used by the police - I love the police).

My wife actually showed up with the kids and the police officer talked with her. Finally, she agreed to release the kids for my weekend. About 4 hours late, I got to see my kids and give them hugs. My kids were so happy to see me. My kids and I hugged and cried on the lawn in front of the police officer. Finally, I got to see my kids. I only get 31 hours with them, every other weekend (so, every minute counts).

Does anyone have any good words of encouragement to keep fighting for my kids? Or any good references?

I know that I am a good dad. The police officer provided great words of encouragement to me. It is difficult to have strength after hearing nothing but negativity from my wife. I think about my kids and how they want me to be in their lives.