Thank you all for the words of encouragement! It is so appreciated! Yes I am realizing that this is for me--i can only control myself after all. My new mantra: "I am confident, capable, and strong."
We are going to a mediation lawyer next week. The last time we went, a couple of months ago, I could barely get through the meeting. I told him I needed more time beforewe did that again. He brought it up again but now I am ready to show I am able to stand on my own without falling apart. I'm sure I'll have lots more questions after that.
Btw... does anyone here worry about privacy/spouse recognizing them here?