Originally wrote in October of 2017. It is unfinished, messy, but honest. I plan on expanding on the thoughts and feelings that I began to share, but not today. Here you go:

Marriage, as I have said before, is hard. The last six months have brought me much pain and a near even amount of joy. I have learned that I am stronger than I ever thought possible. I have a tribe of people who I can depend on. I can do so much more than I ever imagined in a single day. Love is not invincible to the stresses of life.

After many years as friends, lovers, and partners my new ex decided that being a husband and father was not helping him to be happy. I knew things were not always perfect, but I do not know any marriages that are actually perfect, so I thought it was a time that we had to try to be strong, persevere, and lean on one another to make it through to the happiest times. I did not know that for him, it was over.

I think this only exemplifies that marriage (especially with kids) is exceptionally hard. It is not only an adventure, but the longest, most grueling challenge that there is. I am grateful for my children, for this life I have, for this space to release my feelings and thoughts, and for my tribe.