Dear almostlost:
Your ex boyfriend sounds like a decent man. Seems like he values his son and his position as his son’s father. I value it too and believe it should be his first priority to be a good father and present in his son’s life.
On top of it, he sounds like a caring individual toward you, caring about how you will be affected by his life difficulties.
If I was you, I wouldn’t try to change his mind: if I had a part in causing a separation between him and his son, I wouldn’t be able to endure the guilt and he may be very resentful of you for encouraging such a separation.
If I was you, I would move on and search for a man as decent as this guy.
anita