You meet someone you like, they like you, you know you should be glad.

Fast forward, you’ll work like an ox, you bring home bread and money for everyone, you buy the groceries, you cook the meals, you clean the house, mow the lawn, take care of the kids, wash the car, manage finances, do the tax returns, book the next holidays and so on. Repeat this forever until life gets you down and you’re greeted with: “We need to separate”.

I’ve been married for over 10 years and it sure had its ups and downs, but > 90% of the time it seemed like things were quite nice actually. But then, all of a sudden, all of those conflicts of the past are now a complete deal breaker. No warning shots, nothing. At least not to me, because as it turns out, she was talking to all our mutual friends about how unhappy she was and was talking to lawyers already. So she really made sure all bridges are burned before making the move.

The worst part is how she treats me like a complete stranger now, ice cold and without a hint of self-reflection or empathy. Seems like the mask is off now and It’s probably her true self for the first time. I’ll be moving to a new place by the end of the week and hope to get over this nightmare soon, even though the kids will make it difficult to cut her off entirely.

What really helps me to keep my sanity (or at least part of it), are long walks, working out, good food and spending the day in the spa. Also I occupy myself with the things I really enjoy and that were always relegated to the backseat in the last decade.

My heart goes out to each of you, it was really helpful and eye opening to read through this sub. Cheery everyone, life will be better than we think!