Deadbeat Dads: A Guest Post Commentary

Have you heard of the news? Joshua Garlathy, a dad who willfully escaped his obligations to his daughter for 19 years. He was caught in a very unique way. He was tricked into thinking he was going to be in a Jennifer Anniston movie. He’s going to enjoy a 90-day probation and he’s also obliged to pay more than $32,000 to his daughter (as his supposed financial support for all those years he ‘forgot’). Who would have thought that his dream of being a star would lead him to his downfall?

Pennsylvania Joins the Deadbeat Parent Law

A law known as the Deadbeat Parent Law was established in the state of Pennsylvania in 2011. This parenting law allows the state to arrest parents who try to escape their responsibilities (in terms of financial support) to their children by residing outside the state.

Joshua Garlathy broke this law and has managed to escape this rule by flying to Hawaii. However, he flew back to Pennsylvania hoping to make his name famous by agreeing to a role in a bogus famous movie with Jennifer Aniston. Unknown to him, the whole plot was planned by the child’s mother (his ex), who has been looking for him for years because of his paternal obligations to their daughter. So, what’s the conclusion? Guilty!

Parenting – His and Her’s (Responsibility)

Parenting doesn’t always mean staying together under the same roof with the child’s other parent. Although it is ideal for the child to grow up with his/her complete family, if the situation will not allow this scenario to happen, then just fulfill your financial obligations to your child. You can always show your love to them through your financial support, making them feel that you will never let them die in hunger or live a pauper’s life. To make the story short, you need to take full responsibility of the consequences of your actions.

Parenting – His and Her’s (Obligation)

Whether you like it or not, you have to face the consequences of your deeds. Practically, a child will never be born without the role of the other parent. Parents are obligated to raise their child. They are obliged by their conscience and by law to take good care of their child no matter what. Therefore, if they will neglect their obligation through overcoming their conscience, the law will hunt them down instead.

Joshua Garlathy might have failed in facing his responsibility and obligation as a father for 19 years; but, the opportunity to start anew and salvage his relationship with his daughter is still knocking on his door.

A friendly reminder to all the dads out there: running away will not solve your problem. Face it like a real man!