The misery & drama from Labelling seems to be far more related to 'Personal Character' than any real 'Step-Monster' concoction of generality dreamed up for this Act I, Scene II -- Oh Woe Is Me 'athon.

Step-parents are just that -- Only One Step Away From The Real Deal.. & being a responsible 'Parent [Step or otherwise]' remains as one who can connect with an honest love for a child, which is more important than the who one is 'labeled' as.

Empathy, understanding, kindness, heart-felt joy & companionship are basically what kids can accept intellectually.. & emotionally 'trust'.

. . & please, never under-estimate the I.Q. of a Kid.

It All Works... & with Grown-ups too.

Therefore, how about a whole lot less 'self-pity' in exchange for a far more 'thinking adult' -- because that's the heart-sphere that 'Parents of any suit' must evolve from -- be they Step, Adoptive, Grand, Great-Grand'.. First is the Joy of Being Oneself & then everything else is a genuine hug.

Get My Drift...

/..