Tad,

My D was dismissed because I somehow convinced my W that if we had to liquidate our commercial real estate asset (as the lawyers all insisted), the taxes would have been huge and her property settlement would be much less. Yes, she would get cash up front, but her net worth and future retirement prospects would be -45% less. Her dad talked some sense into her. I also told her she'd be broke like a lottery winner in 3 to 5 years if she took the cash. She might not know what she wants to be in the future, but fear is a powerful motivator, and I know she is deathly afraid of being broke. She is adamant about remaining single, so in her mind, if she never remarries (unlikely) going broke is a strong possibility given that she's 48 years old and has not worked in 20 years.

The D dismissal is necessary because to pull off a 1031 real estate exchange, it is impossible to get the lenders to loan to the two of us with a judgement filed at the county. It would show up in the property title report and spook the lenders. So, I wish I could say it was dismissed due to a change of heart, but as they say, it's always about the money.

All that said, the property transaction will take from 8 to 12 months to finish, thereby buying me precious time. She's only in her MLC journey one year now, so my chances are slim for her to change her course during the next 8 to 12 months. I remain hopeful, but realistic of my chances and will go out with no regrets if I fail. I continue to love and miss her dearly, but you cannot make someone love you back. They must come to that conclusion on their own. But of course, I'm preaching to the choir. I will though remain her friend even after the D, in whatever capacity I can.

Good luck to you Tad. I've read many of your posts, and I know how terribly upsetting this has been to you. She was your best friend and I know how much you love her. I really, really hate losing my best friend and confidant too. A piece of me is now gone, and always will be. There are better days ahead either way.

Peace. World