Jodi Sta Maria Gets Honest About the Struggles of a Blended Family Life
JODI STA MARIA – Actress Jodi Sta Maria has never shied away from honesty, and this time, she is opening up about the emotional challenges behind building a blended family.
Jodi Sta. Maria has candidly opened up about the challenges she faced in building a blended family, admitting that the journey was far from easy and required time, humility, and difficult decisions.
In the latest episode of “KC After Hours,” aired on Saturday, January 17, the Silent Superstar was asked about how she was able to establish a good co-parenting relationship, something many people find hard to achieve. Jodi explained that while their blended family eventually worked, the process was neither quick nor simple.
“I’m speaking of my journey, our journey, as a blended family na nag-work for us. Pero it didn’t happen overnight. It was hard,” she shared. She went on to describe the level of conflict they experienced in the past, saying, “Kasuhan left and right. I mean, we are just so hostile na hindi mo talaga kami mapagsasama sa isang room.”
Jodi then recalled a turning point that happened 13 years ago. One night, around three in the morning, while she was drinking, a close friend called to check on her. During their conversation, Jodi expressed her frustration and sense of injustice.
“Sabi ko, ‘I’m fine. Tomorrow may ganito-ganyang-mangyayari.’ And then sabi ko, ‘Ba’t gano’n?’ Ang pakiramdam ko kasi, ako ‘yong naagrabyado. Pero bakit parang ako ‘yong nahihirapan? Di ba dapat sila ‘yong mag-suffer,’” she recounted.
Her friend responded with words that initially upset her but eventually left a lasting impact. “Then I remember this friend told me. Sabi niya, ‘Jodi, the Lord opposes the proud. But gives grace to the humble.’ I’m like, ‘What? You don’t get it!’ Sabi ko talaga, ‘Hindi mo naiintindihan.’”
Despite her initial reaction, Jodi said she couldn’t forget what her friend told her. This reflection led her to make a crucial decision: to stop filing cases against her former husband, Panfilo Lacson, Jr.
“Then I messaged him, I’m sure nagulat siya na, ‘Ha? Bakit ako minessage nito?’ Sabi ko, ‘Can I meet you in this place, at this time? Let’s talk.’ So, do’n nag-start,” the actress shared.
Today, Jodi said they are now a happily blended family. However, she emphasized that she does not dismiss the struggles of others who find themselves in similar family situations.
It can be recalled that in June 2024, the marriage of Jodi and Panfilo was officially annulled. They were married in 2005, separated in 2011, and have one son, Thirdy.
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