how to 180 when you've been too independent?

[avermont]

I will try to buck up. I have a girlfriend to go with me.

I will mentally prepare the the "smile and wave" theory. I might as well face them now as well as later.

Come clean with what? I live in a small town; x-partner and I were part of this town. I am on the rescue squad and the board of the Opera House; he is a big shot (in a small town way) on the planning commission. So we were involved in different social strata of town; well known and respected.

And now he has the option of introducing OW all around as his new partner; and there I am...doing my best to look OK with it all and dealing.

Jeezum crow as we say here in the north.

Wow, the hardest part will be the community part. Really, we were both so proud that we contributed to so many of the good things in this nice little town. And to have "everyone" see us apart; and maybe her there...

Sorry but drinking is a major part of coping. I will deal with it as a problem "later."

Any advice on maintaining one's cool in the presence of X and OW is much appreciated.