I used to make up "excuses" for the choices my ex made, but eventually I came to understand that 1) I was only enabling him, 2) it was not my responsibility to "cover" for him, and 3) it was damaging my relationship with our children.
*** - I used the word "somewhat" because...and this is my personal opinion...REGARDLESS of what the other parent does or says (this does not include abuse), we do not have a right to destroy our child(ren)'s relationship with the other parent.