V1olin's new life without wife

[hoosiermama]

yes, there is a certain relief and freedom in realizing at deeper and deeper levels that we no longer have to live our lives around getting their permission or approval. life begins to open up in a way that was impossible to anticipate before.

that whole "being friends" thing is such hogwash. I honestly believe it's so that they can feel like they're not such bad people after all: "look what a good person I am; my ex is still a good friend." my xH told me as we walked away from mediation, "I'll always love you." hmph. not sure he ever did love me, but pretty sure none of this involves love!