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  Posted to group - What do i do now    <<Previous    Next>>

after 20 years of marriage, he wants a divorce out of the blue

i haven't worked in over 20 years outside the home, my kids are in college now and he announces he wants to divorce me. want am i suppose to do now? i'm hoping someone on this site will have some advice for me. i haven't worked or dated or anyting in over 20 years.

by cindy    79 Posts   
Posted on 11/16/2007 1:30 PM    
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Answers for "after 20 years of marriage, he wants a divorce out of the blue"  (10) (You must be logged in to answer)




It is hard I know.  After 26years my husband told me he was "done" and left.  I was pretty freaked out because I didn't know how in the world I would survive --- on every level. 
However - I am surviving.  I have my own business which is actually thriving.  I plan on making a geographical move in the next few months as I know putting some physical distance --- like 1500 miles --- between us will be healthy for me.
The mere thought of dating is enough to make me want to run into the forest and live with wild boars ---- so that isn't something I worry about. So please - try to keep that as far from the front as possible.  I know it is hard when someone you love tells you they don't want you anymore and I now understand why so many people QUICKLY jump into a relationship soon after.  We all need the validation we are STILL okay.  But - it is important to use your head.  You need to heal 1st and like Robert says - when the time is right you will know it.  Then it won't be out of desperation.
Finally - don't forget that you put in all those years and as such you are entitled to monetary support.  Do you have a temporary order of support in place so he is paying the bills etc?  See an attorney and find out what's in store.  Every state has different views on spousal support. I happen to live in one where they don't think after 26 years you are entitled to very much - but other states are a bit more generous.  SO seek wise counsel.  BELIEVE in yourself & imagine the life you want. 
Let us know how you are!
by Mb   196 Posts
Posted on 4/23/2008 12:04 AM
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After 32 years of marriage, and mostly staying at home too, I had to figure out what to do.  I started with what I was good at.  Luckily, I have some design skills, and have managed our rental properties. I am good at looking at a run down house, and seeing what is needed. So, I just got my real estate license, and although i haven't made money yet, i know i will.  i will also find other rentals to manage, and offer advice about renovating cheaply.
I joined a local dance studio and take classes there a few times a week.  I go to the Saturday night dances they have, and I am having a ball!  Little by little, you wake up and realize who you really are, and what you have been missing in life.
by dancer   7 Posts
Posted on 4/22/2008 11:53 PM
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thanks. i will.
by cindy   79 Posts
Posted on 12/19/2007 3:18 PM
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I agree about skipping the dating just yet - I needed to get my self-esteem back before I was able to put myself out there again. Good luck to you!
by Betsy-Richter   65 Posts
Posted on 11/29/2007 10:46 PM
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