Oh, I'm not saying my parents didn't encourage me to live my own life & make my own decisions - far from it. But because we have that close relationship, because I have that emotional support, that unconditional love, I know that's part of what gives me the strength to live my own life & pursue my own goals. I have no idea where I'd be without it.

Honestly, I think what it really boils down to is that the SPN writers didn't know what to do with John - he was too complex and too much of a distraction from the 'main' story of the brothers, so they started making him simple in his motivations & in their reactions in later seasons.

But that's just me. Admittedly, I'm biased. *g* And I'd love to see a John Wincester chronicles prequel show.