One of the strongest women I know sent me these lyrics to Florence and the Machine’s ‘Shake It Out’.
Regrets collect like old friends
Here to relive your darkest moments
I can see no way, I can see no way
And all of the ghouls come out to play
And every demon wants his pound of flesh
But I like to keep some things to myself
I like to keep my issues drawn
It's always darkest before the dawn
And I've been a fool and I've been blind
I can never leave the past behind
I can see no way, I can see no way
I'm always dragging that horse around
Our love is questioned, such a mournful sound
Tonight I'm gonna bury that horse in the ground
So I like to keep my issues drawn
But it's always darkest before the dawn
Shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, ooh whoa
Shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, ooh whoa
And it's hard to dance with a devil on your back
So shake him off, oh whoa
And I am done with my graceless heart
So tonight I'm gonna cut it out and then restart
'Cause I like to keep my issues drawn
It's always darkest before the dawn
Shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, ooh whoa
Shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, ooh whoa
And it's hard to dance with a devil on your back
So shake him off, oh whoa
And it's hard to dance with a devil on your back
And given half the chance would I take any of it back
It's a fine romance but it's left me so undone
It's always darkest before the dawn
Oh whoa, oh whoa...
And I'm damned if I do and I'm damned if I don't
So here's to drinks in the dark at the end of my road
And I'm ready to suffer and I'm ready to hope
It's a shot in the dark aimed right at my throat
'Cause looking for heaven, found the devil in me
Looking for heaven, found the devil in me
Well what the hell I'm gonna let it happen to me, yeah
Shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, ooh whoa
Shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, ooh whoa
And it's hard to dance with a devil on your back
So shake him off, oh whoa
Shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, ooh whoa
Shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, shake it out, ooh whoa
And it's hard to dance with a devil on your back
So shake him off, oh whoa
This blog is my journey to Becoming Wonder Woman through the trials of divorce, lessons of a being new mom, challenges of a demanding career, and experiments as a single mom.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Monday, December 24, 2012
Reflection on 2012
In thinking about this time 2 years ago, then last year and now this year, I am the luckiest person ever. Life is so much better. It still really hurts but the 'good' is pure. The good was really diluted during my marriage. Now happy is happy. Sad is sad. Sad isn't resentful and happy isn't laced with guilt or longing.
In Brene Brown’s final blog post for the year, she says, “Yes, softening into joy is uncomfortable. Yes, it’s scary. Yes, it’s vulnerable. But every time we allow ourselves to lean into joy and give in to those moments, we build resilience and we cultivate hope. The joy becomes part of who we are, and when bad things happen—and they do happen—we are stronger”.
In 2010, I survived. In 2011, I discovered the strength of my resilience. This year, I softened to joy. In 2013, I will hope.
In Brene Brown’s final blog post for the year, she says, “Yes, softening into joy is uncomfortable. Yes, it’s scary. Yes, it’s vulnerable. But every time we allow ourselves to lean into joy and give in to those moments, we build resilience and we cultivate hope. The joy becomes part of who we are, and when bad things happen—and they do happen—we are stronger”.
In 2010, I survived. In 2011, I discovered the strength of my resilience. This year, I softened to joy. In 2013, I will hope.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Guest blog post: Advice for single mom’s (and single women) everywhere
A guest blog post from my dear friend, Mulan. I read this and thought it was applicable to every single woman - practical, solid advice:
Wanted to tell you that you are a hot commodity. Prime real estate. You are intelligent, kind, thoughtful, beautiful, and funny to name a few. Please don't waste anymore time over the runner. Brush it off as you would a white piece of lint on a black sweater. No need to look deeper into it. You will drive yourself nuts.
When we breakup, we want them chase us and it hurts when it doesn't happen. Do not sit, ponder or question. View it as a skinned knee, you get back up and keep walking. Stings a little but doesn't kill you. The hardest part in all this is believing in yourself. Knowing your worth and remembering it when a relationship starts to fizzle. If they aren't giving you what you want because of excuse X,Y & Z, let it go. Or even thank them for not wasting anymore of your time. No sense dragging the relationship out when it's a round hole, square peg.
You are wonderful and if they can't see it, they aren't the one. EVEN if they have 80% of what you are looking for. That isn't enough. We can't teeter in our heads "well he is "X" & "X" but this about him still bugs me. Oh but am I being unreasonable? Unyielding? No one's perfect. Aren't relationships about give and take?? That self questioning will have you settle for less than your worth.
Go on as many dates as you can. Date as many people at the same time. Do not narrow down the candidates until a decent amount of time has passed. You could wind up putting all your energy into one guy when it could have worked with the other. Men are stupid. (except our dads, who were also probably stupid men in their youth!:) ).
I worked with a girl/woman who always had guys calling her and wanting to take her on dates, to lunch etc. She was attractive but no supermodel. Smart but no fancy degree. I finally had to ask her "how do you do it?" (i was lacking some self esteem at the time and had a tinge of envy). She mentioned a book called "the Rules"and that one rule was to end the calls first. It leaves them wanting more. So i picked up a copy and read it for light entertainment. I don't recall everything that book said but it honestly had some interesting points. (Some may also have been odd. it has been years since i read it) I did try the end calls first. And yes (no lie) it did work. (I think in conjunction with keeping calls brief).
Reading it won't mean you are pathetic, less intelligent or desperate. I viewed it as research. Looking into how other women view the world and dating. Give it a shot, you have nothing to lose. If you haven't, make a list of the qualities you would like your significant other to have and stick to it. :). If they are missing a few items on your list, they gotta go. Yes, no one is perfect however it is your goal to find the most perfect person with whom you chose to spend your time. And hopefully they meet 99% of your list! I still have mine somewhere. It's funny. Sadly I needed to state odd items that were deal breakers e.g. no felons, no mama's boys, must have gainful employment... LOL.
This is your rebirth. The pages ahead in your life are blank allowing you to write your path. Unwind and enjoy and I promise, you will one day be happy. xoxo, Mulan
Wanted to tell you that you are a hot commodity. Prime real estate. You are intelligent, kind, thoughtful, beautiful, and funny to name a few. Please don't waste anymore time over the runner. Brush it off as you would a white piece of lint on a black sweater. No need to look deeper into it. You will drive yourself nuts.
When we breakup, we want them chase us and it hurts when it doesn't happen. Do not sit, ponder or question. View it as a skinned knee, you get back up and keep walking. Stings a little but doesn't kill you. The hardest part in all this is believing in yourself. Knowing your worth and remembering it when a relationship starts to fizzle. If they aren't giving you what you want because of excuse X,Y & Z, let it go. Or even thank them for not wasting anymore of your time. No sense dragging the relationship out when it's a round hole, square peg.
You are wonderful and if they can't see it, they aren't the one. EVEN if they have 80% of what you are looking for. That isn't enough. We can't teeter in our heads "well he is "X" & "X" but this about him still bugs me. Oh but am I being unreasonable? Unyielding? No one's perfect. Aren't relationships about give and take?? That self questioning will have you settle for less than your worth.
Go on as many dates as you can. Date as many people at the same time. Do not narrow down the candidates until a decent amount of time has passed. You could wind up putting all your energy into one guy when it could have worked with the other. Men are stupid. (except our dads, who were also probably stupid men in their youth!:) ).
I worked with a girl/woman who always had guys calling her and wanting to take her on dates, to lunch etc. She was attractive but no supermodel. Smart but no fancy degree. I finally had to ask her "how do you do it?" (i was lacking some self esteem at the time and had a tinge of envy). She mentioned a book called "the Rules"and that one rule was to end the calls first. It leaves them wanting more. So i picked up a copy and read it for light entertainment. I don't recall everything that book said but it honestly had some interesting points. (Some may also have been odd. it has been years since i read it) I did try the end calls first. And yes (no lie) it did work. (I think in conjunction with keeping calls brief).
Reading it won't mean you are pathetic, less intelligent or desperate. I viewed it as research. Looking into how other women view the world and dating. Give it a shot, you have nothing to lose. If you haven't, make a list of the qualities you would like your significant other to have and stick to it. :). If they are missing a few items on your list, they gotta go. Yes, no one is perfect however it is your goal to find the most perfect person with whom you chose to spend your time. And hopefully they meet 99% of your list! I still have mine somewhere. It's funny. Sadly I needed to state odd items that were deal breakers e.g. no felons, no mama's boys, must have gainful employment... LOL.
This is your rebirth. The pages ahead in your life are blank allowing you to write your path. Unwind and enjoy and I promise, you will one day be happy. xoxo, Mulan
Friday, December 21, 2012
Mystery Man
I hope that one day mystery man will materialize. The man who likes to eat dinner with Grace and I, who enjoys going for walks with us. Who embraces her and cares about her as someone special to him. Sometimes I scared if I hope for him, it will jinx it. But as a good friend pointed out, if you are clearer and clearer on your vision it is more likely to come into your life. I've never been sure if the intention itself puts out energy that brings the reality towards you or if an intention is so clear that it is like a self-fulfilling prophecy - it takes shape in your life because you are focused on that reality (which works good and bad but in this case, good). Better to hope and move forward than not hope and get stuck. I was reading about how hope and fear are two sides of the same coin with the point being to hope without expectations. I hope mystery man appears. But I don't expect him too.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
"If it's meant to be"
“If it’s meant to be...” is by far, my least favorite saying. I am not a fatalist, I do not believe that anything in life is predetermined for us. I think life is what you make of it; how you deal with the things that happen that are out of your control.
I’m disappointed that The Runner hasn’t come after me. He has expressed his sadness and let me know how much he cared. But he hasn’t made a move to fix it. I started to take this as rejection - if you know the problem and you want to fix it, then just fix it. But I’m realizing it isn't that simple. That implies he can make an yes/no, on/off button type choice. But his fears and his feelings are based deeper inside than a simple shift in perspective can change.
So how do things come to life? If it’s not fate, how does ‘meant to be’ actually BE? Humans have a natural tendency to work toward what they want. It is literally part of our human nature. Hungry? Go toward food. Tired? Go to sleep. Things appear to happen as “if it is meant to be, it will be” because if you want it, you take an action to make it happen. And he’s not working to make it happen. I don’t think that means he doesn’t wish it would work but I think that right now it can’t be worked on until other things are worked on first. So the saying “what is meant to be...” interpreted this way tells me that this isn’t right, at least not right now.
And every time I want to shake him and tell him to just fix it already, I need to remember, this isn’t right, at least not right now.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Lesson unfolded - the conclusion
I
ended things with The Runner last night. My intention was to ask to him
give more, to take a step forward. To give what he gave when we first
met - the small reassurances and sweet messages that sent my heart
aflutter.
As the conversation unfolded I realized he was saying the same things as before - doesn’t fit into a ‘family environment’, doesn't’ know if he can give me what I need. And I was asking for the same thing as before - please open up. So instead of asking for more, I ended it. He isn’t where I am. He has been so consumed with his own issues that he forgot to put energy into building a relationship.
He was surprised, he didn’t expect it. I have been giving him so much encouragement lately I can see why, but at the same time, he chose to shut down on me and knowingly didn’t open back up. Did he think I would stick around giving endlessly without receiving anything back?
He felt awful. I was brutally honest. I told him he was so lucky to have an opportunity to add not 1 special person to his life, but 2 and he viewed it as scary. He said I deserved better and I said that held no weight for me because he didn’t treat me better. How do you tell someone they are the nicest person you’ve ever dated yet treat them the poorest?
He said he deserved everything I said and that he was hurt but it was all on him.
All I wanted was for him to step up. Do something. Anything. Tell me you want to make it better. Use this as a wake up call. But he resigned himself to this ending without a fight. That’s what hurt the most. Why say you don’t want this to end but not do anything about it when it is in your control? Yeah, he screwed up. So fix it! The fact he didn’t make any overtures to fix it tells me he doesn’t care that much.
I feel naive and downright stupid to have thought there was potential there. I instantly fell for the guy I met. And then convinced myself it is silly to wait for the other shoe to drop, good things do happen. And then the other shoe dropped. And that guy went away. Replaced by someone who was distant and unyielding.
I wrote him a letter today. I haven’t sent it yet. Partially for closure for myself. Partially for closure for him. Honestly, partially because I want him to come after me. Stop feeling sorry for himself and do something. But that isn’t going to happen. It’s not who he is right now. And this is not what I deserve. (footnote: I found the courage to end this not because I know I deserve better but because I know Grace does. I would tell her to throw this fish back and find one that makes her happy all of the time. I won’t set an example for her that she nor I are not worthy of better).
As the conversation unfolded I realized he was saying the same things as before - doesn’t fit into a ‘family environment’, doesn't’ know if he can give me what I need. And I was asking for the same thing as before - please open up. So instead of asking for more, I ended it. He isn’t where I am. He has been so consumed with his own issues that he forgot to put energy into building a relationship.
He was surprised, he didn’t expect it. I have been giving him so much encouragement lately I can see why, but at the same time, he chose to shut down on me and knowingly didn’t open back up. Did he think I would stick around giving endlessly without receiving anything back?
He felt awful. I was brutally honest. I told him he was so lucky to have an opportunity to add not 1 special person to his life, but 2 and he viewed it as scary. He said I deserved better and I said that held no weight for me because he didn’t treat me better. How do you tell someone they are the nicest person you’ve ever dated yet treat them the poorest?
He said he deserved everything I said and that he was hurt but it was all on him.
All I wanted was for him to step up. Do something. Anything. Tell me you want to make it better. Use this as a wake up call. But he resigned himself to this ending without a fight. That’s what hurt the most. Why say you don’t want this to end but not do anything about it when it is in your control? Yeah, he screwed up. So fix it! The fact he didn’t make any overtures to fix it tells me he doesn’t care that much.
I feel naive and downright stupid to have thought there was potential there. I instantly fell for the guy I met. And then convinced myself it is silly to wait for the other shoe to drop, good things do happen. And then the other shoe dropped. And that guy went away. Replaced by someone who was distant and unyielding.
I wrote him a letter today. I haven’t sent it yet. Partially for closure for myself. Partially for closure for him. Honestly, partially because I want him to come after me. Stop feeling sorry for himself and do something. But that isn’t going to happen. It’s not who he is right now. And this is not what I deserve. (footnote: I found the courage to end this not because I know I deserve better but because I know Grace does. I would tell her to throw this fish back and find one that makes her happy all of the time. I won’t set an example for her that she nor I are not worthy of better).
Monday, December 17, 2012
Lesson unfolding - part 2
I still haven’t heard back from The Runner, so this post does not include the big finale!
I was thinking about the Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto. The proclamation of exactly what I want to give to Grace and what I want Grace to have as a result of our relationship.
Here are some points from the manifesto:
- Above all else, I want you to know that you are loved and lovable. You will learn this from my words and actions--the lessons on love are in how I treat you and how I treat myself.
- I want you to engage with the world from a place of worthiness. You will learn that you are worthy of love, belonging, and joy every time you see me practice self-compassion and embrace my own imperfections.
- You will learn accountability and respect by watching me make mistakes and make amends, and by watching how I ask for what I need and talk about how I feel.
- As you begin your Wholehearted journey, the greatest gift that I can give to you is to live and love with my whole heart and to dare greatly.
To these points, I am doing the right thing. Would I want Grace to settle for less than she needs? Would I tell her she is unreasonable for wanting a relationship in her life that isn’t 50% good and 50% work, but instead 90% good and 10% work? Would I tell her she is not worthy of love because her imperfections are too much? It is heart-breaking to write these questions because the obvious answer is no. So why then, would I live in such a way that Grace learn from my less-than actions?
It’s time to break my family’s tradition of unworthiness and write a new story (literally, as that’s what I’ve been doing on this blog, isn’t it?)
I was thinking about the Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto. The proclamation of exactly what I want to give to Grace and what I want Grace to have as a result of our relationship.
Here are some points from the manifesto:
- Above all else, I want you to know that you are loved and lovable. You will learn this from my words and actions--the lessons on love are in how I treat you and how I treat myself.
- I want you to engage with the world from a place of worthiness. You will learn that you are worthy of love, belonging, and joy every time you see me practice self-compassion and embrace my own imperfections.
- You will learn accountability and respect by watching me make mistakes and make amends, and by watching how I ask for what I need and talk about how I feel.
- As you begin your Wholehearted journey, the greatest gift that I can give to you is to live and love with my whole heart and to dare greatly.
To these points, I am doing the right thing. Would I want Grace to settle for less than she needs? Would I tell her she is unreasonable for wanting a relationship in her life that isn’t 50% good and 50% work, but instead 90% good and 10% work? Would I tell her she is not worthy of love because her imperfections are too much? It is heart-breaking to write these questions because the obvious answer is no. So why then, would I live in such a way that Grace learn from my less-than actions?
It’s time to break my family’s tradition of unworthiness and write a new story (literally, as that’s what I’ve been doing on this blog, isn’t it?)
Lesson unfolding...part 1
I
texted The Runner and told him that I would like to know what he’s
thinking/feeling. Where his head is at. I can’t tell if I’m a
convenience or a positive in his life. He doesn’t give me any verbal
cues. And as a result, I don’t know what his actions mean. So I’ve been
in a state of uncertainty for about a month now and have hit the limit
on my tolerance for uncertainty. I knew this would push me to my limit.
I was hoping that would happen after the New Year, but apparently my
limit is December 17th.
I’m writing this blog post as this is unfolding. He hasn’t responded yet. And I haven’t yet found clarity as to what I am thinking/feeling right now.
What I know for sure:
I’m not getting enough. I need more positive feedback, I need to know things are ok and that he likes me. (Example: I texted "I miss you" and he said "thank you" - I assume then, that he does not miss me too?)
He is trying with his actions. But without his words, I can’t tell what he is thinking.
Every time I feel giddy with excitement over him, it quickly turns to anxiety because I have no idea if he feels the same about me.
What I’m scared of:
That I’m being unreasonable in saying I’m not getting enough. Maybe his actions should be enough for me to know he really likes me.
That I’m not the type of girl that guys ‘fall for’. The girl that they openly express their interest for. The girl they are excited to spend time with.
What I suspect could be happening - but can’t even think clearly enough to know for sure:
I need more. But I’m too scared to ask for it. Too scared that I’m being unreasonable. Or that I’ll be alone forever. I know I need more but I’m not sure that I deserve more.
Dating The Runner has been a great exercise in uncertainty. But now I’ve hit my limit and need to know where things stand. To know if we are close to or on the same page. To have something to hold on to if things continue to go forward.
Now, perhaps, this lesson is about deserving more. The infamous phrase that every girl says to one another: "you deserve better". How do I know that’s just not what the girls say to their loser friend to make her feel better (and why do I always cast myself as the loser friend?). How am I supposed to KNOW that I deserve better when right now, I’m really not sure that is the case. Never have I raised my hand up to someone and said I deserve better. Much less left if I didn’t receive it. I’ve always convinced myself that whatever was given was enough, because if I pushed for more, I’d likely end up with nothing.
Getting less than what I need is resulting in stomach aches and zapping my energy. Isn’t that a sign something isn’t right? Is this where I learn to stand up for what I deserve? I need to believe it first.
I don’t have a wisdom-filled conclusion for this post because it’s still unfolding. He could write back in a vague and pragmatic fashion, letting me know he isn’t going to give more. Or he could write back with words of reassurance. But my lesson isn’t in getting the result I hope for. My lesson is asking for what I need.
I think that’s what I’ve done. I think this is good....if it didn’t feel so scary to wait through!
I’m writing this blog post as this is unfolding. He hasn’t responded yet. And I haven’t yet found clarity as to what I am thinking/feeling right now.
What I know for sure:
I’m not getting enough. I need more positive feedback, I need to know things are ok and that he likes me. (Example: I texted "I miss you" and he said "thank you" - I assume then, that he does not miss me too?)
He is trying with his actions. But without his words, I can’t tell what he is thinking.
Every time I feel giddy with excitement over him, it quickly turns to anxiety because I have no idea if he feels the same about me.
What I’m scared of:
That I’m being unreasonable in saying I’m not getting enough. Maybe his actions should be enough for me to know he really likes me.
That I’m not the type of girl that guys ‘fall for’. The girl that they openly express their interest for. The girl they are excited to spend time with.
What I suspect could be happening - but can’t even think clearly enough to know for sure:
I need more. But I’m too scared to ask for it. Too scared that I’m being unreasonable. Or that I’ll be alone forever. I know I need more but I’m not sure that I deserve more.
Dating The Runner has been a great exercise in uncertainty. But now I’ve hit my limit and need to know where things stand. To know if we are close to or on the same page. To have something to hold on to if things continue to go forward.
Now, perhaps, this lesson is about deserving more. The infamous phrase that every girl says to one another: "you deserve better". How do I know that’s just not what the girls say to their loser friend to make her feel better (and why do I always cast myself as the loser friend?). How am I supposed to KNOW that I deserve better when right now, I’m really not sure that is the case. Never have I raised my hand up to someone and said I deserve better. Much less left if I didn’t receive it. I’ve always convinced myself that whatever was given was enough, because if I pushed for more, I’d likely end up with nothing.
Getting less than what I need is resulting in stomach aches and zapping my energy. Isn’t that a sign something isn’t right? Is this where I learn to stand up for what I deserve? I need to believe it first.
I don’t have a wisdom-filled conclusion for this post because it’s still unfolding. He could write back in a vague and pragmatic fashion, letting me know he isn’t going to give more. Or he could write back with words of reassurance. But my lesson isn’t in getting the result I hope for. My lesson is asking for what I need.
I think that’s what I’ve done. I think this is good....if it didn’t feel so scary to wait through!
Monday, December 10, 2012
Living as an Uncarved Block
The
Runner and I went to Baltimore for the 2 days/1 night away. We both
like doing active things and he pace matches mine
when I travel (not a lot of time spent staring at a TV in a room!). He
actually hung out the whole weekend, not just the night away. Even
Sunday night when Grace returned.
Previously I said I thought that he had stopped pulling back but wasn’t moving forward either. The truth is, he is moving forward in small steps. So that is good.
But there is still something missing. The excitement of the early days of dating someone. I can’t let myself go because I’m always aware he may pull back at any moment. And he already said he doesn’t even know if he can/will let himself go because of past hurt and ‘lifestyle differences’. So as we were away this weekend I kept assessing the situation to get a feel for ‘is this working for me or not’. For each point where I think it won’t work, I have a point that makes it worth moving forward.
I’m in the middle. Not having strong enough feelings to go either way. Which reminded me to ‘be a log’ and feel the sadness of lacking the excitement of being together, and then feeling the comfort of being with someone who is so thoughtful and capable that I don’t have to worry about anything.
I was contemplating my non-action as a log and was reminded of what sounded so familiar - the Uncarved block of Taoism. The basis for the philosophy that I try to use as my doctrine when perspective is needed (though I frequently do not put into practice enough, I’m starting to do so more recently).
The Chinese word "Pu" is often translated as "the uncarved block," and refers to a state of pure potential which is the primordial condition of the mind before the arising of experience. The Taoist concept of Pu points to perception without prejudice, i.e. beyond dualistic distinctions such as right/wrong, good/bad, black/white, beautiful/ugly. It is a state of mental unity which places the Taoist practitioner into alignment with the Tao.
The practice of the Uncarved block has become less anxiety provoking and more comfortable. The need to have all of life's answers right now is fading (don’t get me wrong, the ‘need’ is fading but I still would really like to have everything tied it a nice little bow!). I don’t know if I’ll get married again or even find the right person, but I’m still growing and still taking advantage of every opportunity to live life to it’s fullest - and that is enough. Being in a state of potential rather than expectation. A state of experience rather than disappointment or elation.
Ps - Happy 4,000 view of this blog! The comments and support provided by everyone as results from this blog have been wonderful. Something I am grateful for each day. Please feel free to comment or share your experiences on the blog too!
Previously I said I thought that he had stopped pulling back but wasn’t moving forward either. The truth is, he is moving forward in small steps. So that is good.
But there is still something missing. The excitement of the early days of dating someone. I can’t let myself go because I’m always aware he may pull back at any moment. And he already said he doesn’t even know if he can/will let himself go because of past hurt and ‘lifestyle differences’. So as we were away this weekend I kept assessing the situation to get a feel for ‘is this working for me or not’. For each point where I think it won’t work, I have a point that makes it worth moving forward.
I’m in the middle. Not having strong enough feelings to go either way. Which reminded me to ‘be a log’ and feel the sadness of lacking the excitement of being together, and then feeling the comfort of being with someone who is so thoughtful and capable that I don’t have to worry about anything.
I was contemplating my non-action as a log and was reminded of what sounded so familiar - the Uncarved block of Taoism. The basis for the philosophy that I try to use as my doctrine when perspective is needed (though I frequently do not put into practice enough, I’m starting to do so more recently).
The Chinese word "Pu" is often translated as "the uncarved block," and refers to a state of pure potential which is the primordial condition of the mind before the arising of experience. The Taoist concept of Pu points to perception without prejudice, i.e. beyond dualistic distinctions such as right/wrong, good/bad, black/white, beautiful/ugly. It is a state of mental unity which places the Taoist practitioner into alignment with the Tao.
The practice of the Uncarved block has become less anxiety provoking and more comfortable. The need to have all of life's answers right now is fading (don’t get me wrong, the ‘need’ is fading but I still would really like to have everything tied it a nice little bow!). I don’t know if I’ll get married again or even find the right person, but I’m still growing and still taking advantage of every opportunity to live life to it’s fullest - and that is enough. Being in a state of potential rather than expectation. A state of experience rather than disappointment or elation.
Ps - Happy 4,000 view of this blog! The comments and support provided by everyone as results from this blog have been wonderful. Something I am grateful for each day. Please feel free to comment or share your experiences on the blog too!
Friday, December 7, 2012
S-Day
Yesterday was S-day - 2 years to date when I kicked my ex out of the house after he informed me he had no intention of working on the marriage nor ending his affair. I made it all day without crying until I found out my cousin got engaged. I’m very happy for her, her finace is a virtual dog whisperer so I’m hoping he’ll whip my dog into shape. But at the same time, it feels like the universe has a funny way of twisting the knife just a little bit more every time the pain starts to ease - a constant reminder that I missed out on my happy ending and now am in a permanent life-limbo.
And of course, when thinking about my life-limbo, I think about the current situation with The Runner. Dating someone who hasn’t even asked me to hang out tonight, even though it is Friday. We do have plans to go out of town tomorrow but I can’t remember the last time he asked me to spontaneously hang out. And 90% of my invitations are met with rejections for a variety of reasons (work, tired, hanging out with roommates). So although The Runner has stopped moving backward, he never really started moving forward. Maybe this is what it means to take baby steps and take things slowly, but it is hard to go from something that was more to something that is less....and then stay in that holding pattern. It is hard not to think ‘I want to be with someone who wants to be with me’, when currently I feel like I’m on a scheduled visitation, not spontaneous ‘I can’t wait to see you’. And most definitely never ‘I miss you’ when we aren’t hanging out.
So although I made it through most of s-day unscathed, I’m feeling down in the dumps today. I’ll shake it off for our out-of-town adventure tomorrow but it is hard not to blurt out ‘what is going on here?’ since I said I’d give it 6 weeks to find out. I sincerely hope this ‘giving someone space’ thing pays off because mainly it just makes me feel somewhere between not-very-important to a downright convenience.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Holiday spirit spree
What
a fantastic weekend. Start to finish - it was enjoyable, and despite
lack of downtime, still relaxing!! Friday evening I had date night with
the Runner which consisted of dinner and drinks at a few places in the
city. Saturday we made plans to go to brunch and then run some errands
(to his favorite hardware store which happens to be next to Dollar
Tree...an elusive destination which I was happy to find not-to-far
away). By Saturday morning, the general feeling with The Runner was so content that I took a
leap of faith and invited him to see Christmas lights with Grace and
I Saturday evening, to which he immediately responded “that sounds
good”. I was literally bouncing with excitement!
We spent the day together as planned and when Grace arrived home from her father’s, we took her to see the mecca of all Christmas lights in the Philadelphia region, Longwood Gardens. After a 45 minute drive, I was shocked to see they implemented timed entrances since I had last visited and were sold out until 7:30pm! Despite my pleas to the unbending woman at the ticket counter, we were not admitted (feel free to cross-reference my pending review on tripadvisor about the abundance of Christmas lights, yet lack of Christmas spirit that Longwood Gardens has to offer). Not to worry, The Runner said he knew of a house nearby that lights up their entire yard and invites visitors to walk through. So we drove a bit more and came upon a winter wonderland that was a perfect fit for a 2 year old. Grace sprinted across the grounds in a whirl, giggling with glee. The Runner even offered to watch her for a bit so I could soak in some of the lighted details that I didn’t have time to see as I was chasing after her.
On Sunday morning we parted ways and Grace and I went with Hot Hair Momma and her two girls into Philadelphia on a grand tour of Christmas displays - the Wanamaker building light show, a horse-drawn carriage ride, and the Comcast building light show. What a perfect day!
Weekend takeaways: The Runner has been really making an effort to get to know Grace and to be a part of my life. I still don’t know where things stand or if this is becoming a positive, rather than anxiety-provoking, experience for him, but it is great to see him make the effort. (and between you & I, he is doing the little things with her, like proactively playing silly games, that people do when they enjoy a child’s company :)
Also, Grace and I have checked the box on almost every Christmas experience one can have - all by December 2nd. Going into the city with Hot Hair Momma and her girls was a fantastic experience, as not once the entire day did I miss the feeling of not having a traditional “family” and instead basked in the glow of our kids making Christmas memories.
In the few times that I started to panic or have negative thoughts, I continually told myself to “be the log” (see previous post) and breathed through the sweeping emotions that have been rolling in steadily since Thanksgiving....and much to my surprise, waves of joy started rolling in amidst the other feelings, bringing a much-missed warm and contentment.
We spent the day together as planned and when Grace arrived home from her father’s, we took her to see the mecca of all Christmas lights in the Philadelphia region, Longwood Gardens. After a 45 minute drive, I was shocked to see they implemented timed entrances since I had last visited and were sold out until 7:30pm! Despite my pleas to the unbending woman at the ticket counter, we were not admitted (feel free to cross-reference my pending review on tripadvisor about the abundance of Christmas lights, yet lack of Christmas spirit that Longwood Gardens has to offer). Not to worry, The Runner said he knew of a house nearby that lights up their entire yard and invites visitors to walk through. So we drove a bit more and came upon a winter wonderland that was a perfect fit for a 2 year old. Grace sprinted across the grounds in a whirl, giggling with glee. The Runner even offered to watch her for a bit so I could soak in some of the lighted details that I didn’t have time to see as I was chasing after her.
On Sunday morning we parted ways and Grace and I went with Hot Hair Momma and her two girls into Philadelphia on a grand tour of Christmas displays - the Wanamaker building light show, a horse-drawn carriage ride, and the Comcast building light show. What a perfect day!
Weekend takeaways: The Runner has been really making an effort to get to know Grace and to be a part of my life. I still don’t know where things stand or if this is becoming a positive, rather than anxiety-provoking, experience for him, but it is great to see him make the effort. (and between you & I, he is doing the little things with her, like proactively playing silly games, that people do when they enjoy a child’s company :)
Also, Grace and I have checked the box on almost every Christmas experience one can have - all by December 2nd. Going into the city with Hot Hair Momma and her girls was a fantastic experience, as not once the entire day did I miss the feeling of not having a traditional “family” and instead basked in the glow of our kids making Christmas memories.
In the few times that I started to panic or have negative thoughts, I continually told myself to “be the log” (see previous post) and breathed through the sweeping emotions that have been rolling in steadily since Thanksgiving....and much to my surprise, waves of joy started rolling in amidst the other feelings, bringing a much-missed warm and contentment.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Remaining like a log
I
finally had the opportunity to sit down with Little Buddha today. I can
not express how valuable she is, with her experiences, understanding
and wisdom. Little Buddha validated that what I'm going through has
nothing to do with the Lexapro or depression, it is standard holiday
emotions post-divorce. She said all the right things are being done:
awareness of the negative thoughts, attempt to change perception. I know
my thinking hasn’t been right but a lot of this is just knowing ‘it is
what it is’. Instead I’ve been judging and fighting against my feelings.
I wanted to tell The Runner what has been going on. I’ve been missing my joie de vivre and I don’t know if he can sense it, but he shares his experiences with me and I haven’t been able to communicate the same to him. So I decided to write it out - if I wrote the letter below to myself to tell me what’s been going on, it doesn’t make me as panicky. Or make me judge myself for feeling down. It makes me think it’s a rough time, then it will get better. It takes away some of the overwhelming feelings.
Email to myself (and the Runner):
Hi,
Just a heads up - the holidays are super hard for me, so I've been feeling pretty down lately. This is when I became a single mom. The first month was December and I couldn't even leave my house. Last year I did the bare minimum and shut everything else out. This year I have some holiday spirit back and am starting to indulge in Christmas cheer -- but it's been a rough few weeks and I'm overwhelmed and running on empty.
I've been consumed with so much guilt lately. About Grace - not doing enough with her, being exhausted by her, missing her when she's not there, being relieved when she's not there. Guilt about not reaching the too high standards I set for myself - essentially that I should be perfect in every area. Overwhelmed about the lack of job stability. The falling apart house (every time I get it to where things are in working order, it breaks again!)
Between the guilt that's been eating at me and constantly giving everything to a 2 year old who gives very little in return, I'm running on empty. I'm missing my joie de vivre!
So if I seem a little off kilter or strung out, I really just need a hug.
There are so many thoughts jumbled in my head right now that it was easier to write this out. I appreciate when you share about what's going on with you life, so I wanted to share with you too, so ya know what's up.
- Diana
Now that I’ve been able to sort through many jumbly thoughts, judgements and guilt, the question of how to survive the next month looms large. And as it always seems to happen, Pema Chodron’s thought of the week has impeccable timing:
REMAINING LIKE A LOG
The practice of “remaining like a log” is based on refraining, not repressing. When you realize you’re thinking, just acknowledge that. Then turn your attention to your breath flowing in and out, to your body, to the immediacy of your experience. Doing this allows you to be present and alert, and thoughts have a chance to calm down.
With this practice, it can be helpful to gently breathe in and out with the restlessness of the energy. This is a major support for learning to stay present. Basic wakefulness is right here, if we can just relax. Our situation is fundamentally fluid, unbiased, and free, and we can tune into this at any time. When we practice “remaining like a log,” we allow for this opportunity.
I wanted to tell The Runner what has been going on. I’ve been missing my joie de vivre and I don’t know if he can sense it, but he shares his experiences with me and I haven’t been able to communicate the same to him. So I decided to write it out - if I wrote the letter below to myself to tell me what’s been going on, it doesn’t make me as panicky. Or make me judge myself for feeling down. It makes me think it’s a rough time, then it will get better. It takes away some of the overwhelming feelings.
Email to myself (and the Runner):
Hi,
Just a heads up - the holidays are super hard for me, so I've been feeling pretty down lately. This is when I became a single mom. The first month was December and I couldn't even leave my house. Last year I did the bare minimum and shut everything else out. This year I have some holiday spirit back and am starting to indulge in Christmas cheer -- but it's been a rough few weeks and I'm overwhelmed and running on empty.
I've been consumed with so much guilt lately. About Grace - not doing enough with her, being exhausted by her, missing her when she's not there, being relieved when she's not there. Guilt about not reaching the too high standards I set for myself - essentially that I should be perfect in every area. Overwhelmed about the lack of job stability. The falling apart house (every time I get it to where things are in working order, it breaks again!)
Between the guilt that's been eating at me and constantly giving everything to a 2 year old who gives very little in return, I'm running on empty. I'm missing my joie de vivre!
So if I seem a little off kilter or strung out, I really just need a hug.
There are so many thoughts jumbled in my head right now that it was easier to write this out. I appreciate when you share about what's going on with you life, so I wanted to share with you too, so ya know what's up.
- Diana
Now that I’ve been able to sort through many jumbly thoughts, judgements and guilt, the question of how to survive the next month looms large. And as it always seems to happen, Pema Chodron’s thought of the week has impeccable timing:
REMAINING LIKE A LOG
The practice of “remaining like a log” is based on refraining, not repressing. When you realize you’re thinking, just acknowledge that. Then turn your attention to your breath flowing in and out, to your body, to the immediacy of your experience. Doing this allows you to be present and alert, and thoughts have a chance to calm down.
With this practice, it can be helpful to gently breathe in and out with the restlessness of the energy. This is a major support for learning to stay present. Basic wakefulness is right here, if we can just relax. Our situation is fundamentally fluid, unbiased, and free, and we can tune into this at any time. When we practice “remaining like a log,” we allow for this opportunity.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
A shift in perspective
As I went home from work feeling rather crappy yesterday, it occurred to me that the things that I have wanted and/or been working toward are happening.
| What I’ve been telling myself... | What is really happening... |
| I may lose my job | My job function is such that job security is as good as it is going to be right now. |
| I’m spending too much. | I’m taking steps to save more and realize December is pretty much a wash each year. |
| The Runner isn’t making me feel special. | The Runner hung out with Grace and I on Sunday and he was really great with Grace. He came over early and made an effort to adapt to the whole kid thing. He has sent cute texts and called/talked for an hour last night. |
| I’m not being as good of a mother that I want to be. | Grace couldn’t be happier and I am adding new things into our mix to help her grow and experience more. |
| My house sucks. | My house is safe and affordable. |
| Being a single mom is really hard. | Being a single mom IS really hard, but I will keep working to find a balance and focus on the things that are going well. |
| The holidays are really hard - like salt in a wound constantly reminding me of lost dreams. | Last year I didn’t even decorate for Christmas. I did the bare minimum so Grace would enjoy the holiday and that was it. This year I put out lights, got a tree early, decorated the house, baked cookies and have Christmas outings planned with good friends. So even though I may not be able to feel the warmth of the Christmas spirit yet, I’m definitely steps ahead of where I was last year. |
As you can see, there are two sides to every coin. I don’t know if it is the holidays or going off of Lexapro that I was given back in March when the depression hit full force, but I am processing everything as negative. Forming negative pathways in my brain instead of forging new positive pathways.
Perhaps I asked Santa for the wrong thing, not peace of mind, but a shift in perspective. Because I already have peace of mind, I’m just not recognizing that it is there!
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
All I want for Christmas is...peace of mind
Thanksgiving
was my first holiday where I did not have Grace with me. I knew it
would be hard but I was not prepared for the wave of emotion that hit
the minute her tiny little feet stepped out of my front door. I
collapsed crying, somehow making it back to my bed where I called my mom
and threatened to remain for the rest of the day. Between sobbing to my
mom and sending mean texts to my Ex (such as: Why am I being punished
when I didn’t do anything in the first place? 2 years ago to date you
informed me you wanted to move out in January and no longer live with
your wife and kid and this year you take her from me? WTF!). My mom
calmly reminded me that this was not about my needs but about Grace's - to
bond with her family on a holiday and begin making those fond memories
that all children have from both sides of the family. That was followed
by a call from my Ex offering to bring Grace home that same day or else
early the next. And while I appreciated his offer, I told him that would
only be in my best interest, not in hers, and that I need to keep her
first, therefore she needed to go for the holiday to see his family.
What a jolt. I was knocked sideways. I finally started to recover by spending the next 2 days in a flurry of every kind of holiday preparation imaginable, picturing the delight on Grace’s face as she experienced each holiday item carefully laid out for her.
Fast forward to this week when I find out I have to have the front of my house redone because it wasn’t done right to start with (60 years ago).
And I bought all of Grace’s shoes a size too small, not realizing her feet grew.
And I’m scared I’m overspending on the holidays because I don’t have a lot of job security right now.
I’m stressed right and left. And without someone to share it with, someone to ease the mental burden and provide a little perspective, I found myself wondering through the mall in tears. Overwhelmed by the emotion, the burden, the pressure of it all.
In the last week, I have decided that Single Mom has to be the worst job. No one proactively applies for it. And those of us who get the position are terrified that we may not be able to make the cut. Something is always slipping. My kid isn’t having the depth or breadth of experiences of others. So much guilt and pressure.
I wish I could end this post on a better note but at the moment, I don’t have one. Not only is the bitterness of being a single mom hitting hardcore, but it is making it diffuclt to reach out to friends because it feels like you are on an island that no one can reach, much less relate to (apologies to those of you reading this). When I did reach out to my 2 other single mom friends, their response was “yeah, it sucks”. None of us having the first inkling of how to relieve the pressure.
Well...at least I decorated my island with Christmas lights. And cookies. And color coordinated wrapped presents.
Dear Santa, please bring me peace of mind this year.
xoxoxo,
Diana Prince
What a jolt. I was knocked sideways. I finally started to recover by spending the next 2 days in a flurry of every kind of holiday preparation imaginable, picturing the delight on Grace’s face as she experienced each holiday item carefully laid out for her.
Fast forward to this week when I find out I have to have the front of my house redone because it wasn’t done right to start with (60 years ago).
And I bought all of Grace’s shoes a size too small, not realizing her feet grew.
And I’m scared I’m overspending on the holidays because I don’t have a lot of job security right now.
I’m stressed right and left. And without someone to share it with, someone to ease the mental burden and provide a little perspective, I found myself wondering through the mall in tears. Overwhelmed by the emotion, the burden, the pressure of it all.
In the last week, I have decided that Single Mom has to be the worst job. No one proactively applies for it. And those of us who get the position are terrified that we may not be able to make the cut. Something is always slipping. My kid isn’t having the depth or breadth of experiences of others. So much guilt and pressure.
I wish I could end this post on a better note but at the moment, I don’t have one. Not only is the bitterness of being a single mom hitting hardcore, but it is making it diffuclt to reach out to friends because it feels like you are on an island that no one can reach, much less relate to (apologies to those of you reading this). When I did reach out to my 2 other single mom friends, their response was “yeah, it sucks”. None of us having the first inkling of how to relieve the pressure.
Well...at least I decorated my island with Christmas lights. And cookies. And color coordinated wrapped presents.
Dear Santa, please bring me peace of mind this year.
xoxoxo,
Diana Prince
Monday, November 19, 2012
Hey Jude, make it better
Part
of the reason I was so on edge yesterday is that I was feeling very
alone. The full weight of being a very single parent of a very active
two-year-old. I wanted to take Grace to the nature center to go walking
through the woods. I invited The Runner but he had other stuff going
on. I invited 2 other friends and they did not answer or return my call,
so we went on our walk through the woods. It felt great to get some
fresh air with Grace but it also felt empty. Even now I still feel like
I’m on an island. The Ground Hog’s day phenomena mentioned below being
part of what keeps me separate from everyone else.
So I sulked all day (as mentioned below). Feeling the whole emptiness of being alone. Feeling completely hollow inside. Knowing that I have only two choices 1) drown in this feeling or 2) come up with a plan and make it better (Hey Jude, make it better!). So I am choosing number 2. Except in this case, rather than a tangible plan that I can execute with my customary persistence, I need to embrace being alone. Not to register it as lonely but to register it as living my life. Find the fullness in my life as it is.
Part of why I am so upset about The Runner is that I do want a relationship. To help fill that void I feel of being alone. But that isn’t his responsiblity to fill. Or anyone else. It is on me.
I don’t know exactly how yet. I focus on Grace but sometimes it is exhausting try to engage with a 2 year old who either doesn’t want to engage with you or frequently engages in the opposite way that you’d like! But my perspective needs a wake up call that being alone does not mean being on an island.
The reason I know I’m not really on an island: both friends got in touch later saying they would love to go on the walk but missed the call when it came in and got the message too late. They would have walked with us. We weren’t walking alone after all.
So I sulked all day (as mentioned below). Feeling the whole emptiness of being alone. Feeling completely hollow inside. Knowing that I have only two choices 1) drown in this feeling or 2) come up with a plan and make it better (Hey Jude, make it better!). So I am choosing number 2. Except in this case, rather than a tangible plan that I can execute with my customary persistence, I need to embrace being alone. Not to register it as lonely but to register it as living my life. Find the fullness in my life as it is.
Part of why I am so upset about The Runner is that I do want a relationship. To help fill that void I feel of being alone. But that isn’t his responsiblity to fill. Or anyone else. It is on me.
I don’t know exactly how yet. I focus on Grace but sometimes it is exhausting try to engage with a 2 year old who either doesn’t want to engage with you or frequently engages in the opposite way that you’d like! But my perspective needs a wake up call that being alone does not mean being on an island.
The reason I know I’m not really on an island: both friends got in touch later saying they would love to go on the walk but missed the call when it came in and got the message too late. They would have walked with us. We weren’t walking alone after all.
Ready...or Not.
After much thought over the weekend I realized that the ‘limbo’ situation with The Runner is causing me a lot of anxiety. The uncertainty if it will work out. The uncertainty if he’ll be there the next day or if that will be the day it is too much and he bails.
So following a very sulky day (being a single mom sucks, I’m very lonely, everyone else is moving forward with their lives except me)....The Runner came over last night and I proceeded to be pretty aloof because I was so annoyed all of the hurt and anxiety I’ve been feeling as a result of his unsureness.
After taking a sick day from work due to lack of sleep, quality food and complete mental and emotional exhaustion, we started to talk about what is really going on. He said he doesn’t know if he’s ready to fall in love. He doubts his own instincts and heart because he was messed over so badly last time around. That he’s scared if he gets attached to a family and then it doesn’t work out that he’s letting the family down and that is a lot of responsibility. i.e. the ‘if you are in it, you are in it for good’ outlook. Which is an awfully hard decision to make 3 months into it.
At the same time, it’s not fair to me to keep waiting around to see what he feels. It isn’t that he’s saying “please stick around because I will be ready”. He’s saying “please stick around and I hope that I’ll be ready, but I may not be. This may not be for me.” How is it fair to me to invest more time and even more of my heart that I already have, placing it all on a bet rather than a sure thing?
I tried to end it today. I even said those two magical relationship-ending words again, “take care”. But he didn’t leave. He just kept staying. He wasn’t getting the hint. He said he didn’t want it to end this way. So through my tears I challenged back - then tell me how else this can move forward? Tell me how this could work? And he said we need to communicate more and cited an example of something over the weekend that hurt my feelings and had I told him upfront he could have cleared it up because it was a misconception whereas I was walking around hurt. And of course communication sounds good, but how does that make him any more ready?
I was supposed to have lunch with two very good, very old friends today. I missed lunch because the pseudo breakup discussion with my pseudo-not-really-boyfriend continued through lunch time. They were meeting to catch up on kids and husbands and families. And I was at home, crying over a boy who isn’t even ready to be my boyfriend.
It just seems like this is what life is like now. Stuck in a permanent Ground Hogs day of being 23. Everyone grew up and got married. But the reset button was hit on my life so I have the emotional stability and relationship support of a 23 year old and the responsibilities of a 40 year old. And yes, being a single mom sucks (as I mentioned above). I’m drained. Tapped out. I don’t have the energy to put into The Runner. I’m drowning in guilt from not having the energy to put into my daugther. It is so hard to give and give when there is nothing coming in.
So where do I go from here? Right now, I’m not sure.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
3k and counting!
I’m
pleased to announce this blog has had 3,000+ pageviews! Very exciting
to think that perhaps my experiences have helped someone else. And
certainly your feedback on my experiences has helped me.
I invite you to create an anonymous google log in (or just post as anonymous) if you don’t want to post as yourself and add your comments/feedback to the blog. I receive email feedback frequently, but I have a hunch the other readers may be interested in the various feedback. Afterall, more minds are better than just one.
Thank you for all of your support and advice over the past 3,000 pageviews!
xoxoxo
Diana Prince
I invite you to create an anonymous google log in (or just post as anonymous) if you don’t want to post as yourself and add your comments/feedback to the blog. I receive email feedback frequently, but I have a hunch the other readers may be interested in the various feedback. Afterall, more minds are better than just one.
Thank you for all of your support and advice over the past 3,000 pageviews!
xoxoxo
Diana Prince
Un-break up, day 1
I
was wrong. He came back for me. He showed up with chocolate chip
cookies and answers to all of my questions. We talked through what he
sees as lifestyle differences and what causes him to feel he’s in a
pressure cooker. In the end, it comes down to the fact he wants to adapt
to integrating a child into his life but he doesn’t feel isn’t adapting
so far and that scares him and he doubts himself if he’ll be able to do
it because it hasn’t happened so far.
He wants to spend more time with Grace and continue seeing me. I informed him if is his perception of a child in your life is negative, then the experience will be too and he’ll need to give himself enough mental space to just experience time and build a relationship with her.
Moreover we talked about how much he hurt me and he apologized profusely. When I asked how he could see that we move forward from this, he said he needs to communicate with me more regularly. That we both need to check in to see how the other is feeling frequently. And that he needs to try to adapt.
He is saying the right things in terms of trying. I am nervous about his negative perception and his self-doubt when it comes to Grace. Because you can only change if you want to change. You can only adapt if you want to. He’s used to living an unencumbered lifestyle where he can go anywhere and do anything he wants on a whim and adding a child into the mix means a big adjustment.
We talked a lot about change and he said a lot of this is scary and he has doubt because it is so unknown. He has no basis for comparison or information on what it should be like. That is where the communication should come in - level setting what is going on. If he does the work on his side, and this is not a fit, then so be it. But if he gets scared and backs away without warning....I’ll punch him in the face.
So, I have tentatively agreed to try this with him. Recognizing that I’m taking a big risk. But also recoginizing that I’m not ready to let him go.
He wants to spend more time with Grace and continue seeing me. I informed him if is his perception of a child in your life is negative, then the experience will be too and he’ll need to give himself enough mental space to just experience time and build a relationship with her.
Moreover we talked about how much he hurt me and he apologized profusely. When I asked how he could see that we move forward from this, he said he needs to communicate with me more regularly. That we both need to check in to see how the other is feeling frequently. And that he needs to try to adapt.
He is saying the right things in terms of trying. I am nervous about his negative perception and his self-doubt when it comes to Grace. Because you can only change if you want to change. You can only adapt if you want to. He’s used to living an unencumbered lifestyle where he can go anywhere and do anything he wants on a whim and adding a child into the mix means a big adjustment.
We talked a lot about change and he said a lot of this is scary and he has doubt because it is so unknown. He has no basis for comparison or information on what it should be like. That is where the communication should come in - level setting what is going on. If he does the work on his side, and this is not a fit, then so be it. But if he gets scared and backs away without warning....I’ll punch him in the face.
So, I have tentatively agreed to try this with him. Recognizing that I’m taking a big risk. But also recoginizing that I’m not ready to let him go.
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