My perspective was that I didn't want to be the caricature of the middle aged divorced guy. Trying to fill a hole with booze, floozies, or any other "excitement." I also needed to be assured that I was comfortable with who I was. The time alone made me do some serious introspection. I learned to like then love myself for who I was, just me. I don't need another person to complete me or make me whole. I am fine the way am. Still growth and mountains to climb but I want to meet these challenges.
Yes, my vows mattered to me. I had to look myself in the mirror. I also had to look at my kids and be responsible for my actions. It was my journey to make alone and it mattered to me how I handled it. I did not want to look back and have any regrets about how I acted or reacted over the course of the sitch. Think then take action.

Cheers
Coach

ps Smiley I am hardly saintly but I do have some ministries here in this world. Caution for you, beware of booby traps. grin It's the things you don't see coming that get you.

M22,H45,W45 S21/18D12
Retain faith that you will prevail in the end, regardless of the difficulties and at the same time confront the most brutal facts of your current reality, whatever they might be.