Emotional Vomiting and the Kindness of Strangers

Grief can make you very sloppy. The other day I was reading this great essay “Falling” by Betty Jo Buro about coming undone around strangers. The story is a one-two sucker punch of grief — the death of Buro’s mother and and an impending divorce. (Take a moment. Read the essay. Regain your composure. Please continue.)

I love this passage:

In the elevator, there’re just two older women and me. After a couple of minutes, they tell me, in the kindest way possible, that I need to push the button to make the elevator descend. I apologize and say, “That woman reminded me of my mother,” and then I start to cry on the elevator in the mall with the strangers, holding the bag with my ridiculous jeans.

It made me recall my own sloppy encounters with grief. I remember many months after a friend’s suicide breaking down at a Home Depot in front of the demolition saw display. (He had been a carpenter.) Do you know how mortifying is it to be reduced to muffled sobs by a Milwaukee Sawzall? Very.

Grief is like carrying an invisible bucket of toxic slop on your head. You balance the bucket so carefully, constantly aware of its presence, fearing it might spill. But despite your best efforts, sometimes you trip, and slop pours out all over everything, and you have an embarrassing mess to clean up.

A couple observations on sloppy grief — 1.) Sometimes people will help you clean up. 2.) When you trip and spill, the burden isn’t quite so heavy any longer.

One of the most startling things after heartbreak is the kindness of strangers. Especially after infidelity, because there is no way to take that rejection other than deeply-to-the-mitrochrondria-of-your-soul personally. How can the person who knows me best discard me so completely? How awful am I that this happened? So it’s a real shocker when someone who doesn’t know you at all treats you with kindness.

WTF Universe?! There are GOOD PEOPLE? Hmmm. I may need to rethink my present miserable condition.

The stranger on the elevator who says, “It’s hard” and “I know what it’s like to miss your mother” and doesn’t look away from your vulnerability and grief, has just validated you. Okay, they may be trapped on an elevator with you, but in that moment, they’re able to be present with you, because they’ve suffered loss too. They get it.

I think it’s our job as humans to get it. As I’ve written about being chumped before, the experience changes you if you let it. The pain will crack open your heart, but with that pain comes the ability to walk into other people’s cracked open hearts. After this grief, you will see things in Technicolor. You’ll be grateful for the kindness of strangers, and when you recover, you will be that stranger who comforts, who won’t look away on the elevator, but will say “Hey, I get it” as you both fumble awkwardly for tissues.

I know it’s mortifying to spill your bucket of toxic slop. I have spilled that bucket in a Home Depot. I have overshared. I have emotionally vomited on total acquaintances. (“How was your summer?” Me: “I left my husband. How about you?”)

And I while I do not recommend the experience, (we’re all about dignity here at Chump Nation), I know that the messy grieving stage is finite. And I forgive myself for it. Because the fact is, when that bucket falls — it empties.

An empty bucket is a lot lighter to carry, especially with a friend (or a stranger) to help you carry it.

Have you been comforted by a stranger? Tell me about it.

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WTFhappened
WTFhappened
6 years ago

I’ve been comforted by many strangers, both here and the wonderful people on IHG

Faceless, nameless strangers but wonderful humans who despite their own pain and grief extend and support to others.

Kudos….

WTFhappened
WTFhappened
6 years ago
Reply to  WTFhappened

Have even met some of these chump, and they are also fantastic in the flesh….Strangers no more.

WTFhappened
WTFhappened
6 years ago
Reply to  WTFhappened

WTF, My fingers are dancing to their own beat this evening. Expect more spelling and grammatical errors….

yellowsunshine
yellowsunshine
6 years ago

Comforted by the kind people’s comments here on the forums and comment sections. At times it has reduced me to tears that they have taken the time to acknowledge my pain. I wonder who you all are and it makes me well up that you are real people in this planet that I live and feel so alone on. Xx

lostntx
lostntx
6 years ago
Reply to  yellowsunshine

Yellow, Mark is right. It will take time but you will get through the loneliness. I’m 2 years past Dday and only in the last couple of months have I finally started to enjoy life again. Honestly, I was super lonely in the relationship. I was just so occupied with trying to make it work I didn’t recognize how lonely I was. It takes time but you will get past it. I know it doesn’t feel that way, just go one day at a time!

yellowsunshine
yellowsunshine
6 years ago
Reply to  lostntx

Lost, im sorry that you have had to go through the same of the rest of us. But I’m so glad to hear you are finally starting to feel like yourself again. Keep fighting!! We will all make it through this, people like yourself prove it xx

Peacekeeper
Peacekeeper
6 years ago
Reply to  yellowsunshine

Yellowsunshine,
Your post made me cry, good, caring tears though. It is so true, CN has an army of caring hearts. I read a chumps name and I remember parts of their stories. They are real and alive in my heart. They make me cry, they make me laugh, they give me hope.
All each one of us can do is make the most of each day we are granted in this big ol world.
I think those of us who came upon CL, CN are very blessed!
Yellowsunshine, I am sorry for your heartache. I hope today is a good day for you and I often wonder, when I see your name, how is your puppy?

yellowsunshine
yellowsunshine
6 years ago
Reply to  Peacekeeper

Hello peacekeeper, aren’t we an emotional lot- I just cried because you remembered I had a puppy! How true is CL’s post today!!

He’s doing really well and a great help for me 🙂 he’s a very placid dog (a whippet) and goofy at the same time. He brings me so much joy when his silliness makes me laugh in my darkest moments. Little angel xx

Imachump
Imachump
6 years ago
Reply to  yellowsunshine

Off Topic: I rescue retired, racing, Greyhounds 🙂 and my big, goofy, boy really helped me smile during my grieving process. I find the breed very sensitive :-), well when they aren’t sleeping. 🙂

Marked711
Marked711
6 years ago
Reply to  yellowsunshine

The loneliness will pass as well. It is a great world out there once you see it in the Technicolor CL speaks of. We all understand and will always give you support on your way to being you again. Alone or not, you will always be less lonely without the cheater.

Freedom
Freedom
6 years ago
Reply to  Marked711

My divorce seems to be going on forever
My ex is trying to fight for custody
My kids are old enough and speaking to GAL and hate visiting him and his slut who lives with him
Kids age 12 and 16
He is always angry and yelling at these kids

See I am spilling my guts here and feel all of you understand my pain
Thanks Strangers with kind heart !

ForgeOn!
ForgeOn!
6 years ago
Reply to  Marked711

Precious Marked711,

Beautifully stated!

“Alone or not, you will always be less lonely without the cheater”

So sad how true this is! I have heard it called “Married alone” and it truly is the deepest kind of loneliness. Before any of us experienced this, we would have never believed that actually being alone would be far less lonely than being with a cheater-freak / wingnut.

I continue to marvel at all the wisdom (& snark!) shared here by all the fabulously kind folks of this Nation!

Love to all of you as we continue to ForgeOn!!

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago
Reply to  ForgeOn!

ForgeOn~ So very true! The loneliest days of my life were during my marriage! I am alone…..but since I got rid of the liar/cheater……I really do feel “less lonely.” Thanks for pointing that out so eloquently.

yellowsunshine
yellowsunshine
6 years ago
Reply to  ForgeOn!

“Alone or not, you will always be less lonely without the cheater”

So true. I never felt so alone during the last year of our relationship. It’s a different type of loneliness when you are in it. It is a shattered self esteem, begging for love loneliness. The loneliness now is a defeating feeling, but liberating nevertheless.

yellowsunshine
yellowsunshine
6 years ago
Reply to  yellowsunshine

Or nonetheless. Not sure if the right English for that one haha!

Capricorn
Capricorn
6 years ago

I have been comforted by strangers. All but a few of those strangers have been here on Chump Nation. As much as I will never forget and have been changed by betrayal, I will never forget and have been changed by the kindness I have been shown here.
Furthermore, the pain of the betrayal is fading but the kindness shown to me here will resonate for me and for my boys for the rest of my days.

lostntx
lostntx
6 years ago
Reply to  Capricorn

Your whole statement is so true. I only made it through the worst days because I had CN to come to vent and read solid advice from CL. I have also learned about taking care of myself from here. So, I stick around in an effort to help others through their dark days and try to encourage them. It’s the least I can do.

Peacekeeper
Peacekeeper
6 years ago
Reply to  Capricorn

Capricorn, you are a strong lady! I always look up to you.
There is so much knowledge in your posts. You enlighten and touch the lives of many!
Your sons could not possibly have a better, more sane parent, ever!
I am glad that you respect and honour yourself also.
In the eyes of many, YOU, Capricorn, are mighty!

Capricorn
Capricorn
6 years ago
Reply to  Peacekeeper

Peacekeeper,
Thank you! It’s nice to be able to pay this stuff forward. Just today I went to my local grocery store where they also have a place you can have your car valeted. Ive been working on my garden and going back and forth to the dump with my garden waste, so much so that my car looks like it has been carpeted with grass inside. I left my car there and the guys asked how long I had had the dent in my rear bumper (it’s been at least a year, an old lady drove the wrong way in this same car park and dented my bumper). They said I could fix it with hot water as it is plastic. When I came out with my shopping the car was clean inside and out and then they grabbed their kettle from the office and proceeded to fix the bumper. I thanked them a lot but they just shrugged it off and got back to work.
Every little helps doesn’t it! ❤️

NoMoreNarcs
NoMoreNarcs
6 years ago
Reply to  Capricorn

I must start shopping here IMMEDIATELY!

Capricorn
Capricorn
6 years ago
Reply to  Capricorn

Also, as I go forward I am learning to accept kindness from myself to myself. I was estranged in many ways from myself and the process of getting to know myself again and treating myself with kindness, respect and understanding is a real pleasure and a thrill.

AllOutofKibble
AllOutofKibble
6 years ago
Reply to  Capricorn

100%

ChutesandLadders
ChutesandLadders
6 years ago
Reply to  Capricorn

Capricorn, same! All of it.

heissobroken
heissobroken
6 years ago
Reply to  Capricorn

This ^^^^^^ ?

Beachgirl
Beachgirl
6 years ago

Not long after The final DDay after I had kicked him out I had to replace the garage door key pads by myself. The directions weren’t working so I called the helpline. The girl on the phone kept trying to figure out the problem and it just wouldn’t work. I proceeded to start sobbing and telling her my life woes of my cheating husband and this was the first thing I had to do on my own and this girl, who I never met, proceeded to listen to me, talk to me and calm me down. When we finally got it working I literally cheered in joy and she told me “you got this, you are going to be fine”. She kept me going that day and gave me a boost I needed. When strangers are kinder to you than the person you took vows with you know getting out is the right choice.

Nikki Lynn
Nikki Lynn
6 years ago
Reply to  Beachgirl

Tears hearing this story. It shows the fight you had to get that accomplished right in the the thick of it!

neverwouldhaveimagined
neverwouldhaveimagined
6 years ago
Reply to  Beachgirl

The man at my car repair place, customer service guy at the car insurance company, woman collection agent at the dermatologist office, and pedicurist at the spa all heard my story and were so supportive. The first three commiserated and told me it would get better. Two even shared personal stories. I was so thankful.

The girl at the spa was outraged. She said he was crazy to leave me as she painted my toes a beautiful color. Being the same age as the AP (29), she said my x (60) was a pervert. Loved that!!

I spent quite sometime keeping his dirty little secret of infidelity. I couldn’t tell family, church, school, or neighborhood so I felt like a complete fraud. I told EVERYONE I could after kicking him out for good. It was such a release to be honest and transparent and have others tell me he was a fool. I felt my self-respect returning. Absolutely instrumental to my healing. Now, I don’t feel the need to share with everyone all the time. My grief is manageable.

kiwichump
kiwichump
6 years ago
Reply to  Beachgirl

Same here, so much kindness from strangers after so much meanness from the one I have been kindest to. Time to direct it to the right people!

brit
brit
6 years ago
Reply to  Beachgirl

I never would have imagined crying in front of strangers, a friend of mine invited me to her sisters engagement party, I knew a few people that were going to be there, and thought it would be a nice opportunity for me to get out and socialize. I walked into the party and without warning, broke down in tears, not just tears but sobbing and couldn’t stop myself.
My girlfriends mom came up and hugged me and some other people came up to rub my back and see if I was alright. Omg, I was so embarrassed, I’ve never been a crier, especially in public and here I was sobbing and couldn’t stop.
It is sad when strangers offer more empathy than the person we married.
I could never imagine feeling good about myself and actually enjoying hurting someone especially someone who trusted me.

Got-a-brain
Got-a-brain
6 years ago
Reply to  Beachgirl

Beach girl That made me cry ?.

OutOfSparkles
OutOfSparkles
6 years ago
Reply to  Got-a-brain

Me too! X

Jj
Jj
6 years ago
Reply to  Beachgirl

Exactly, I was awestruck by the kindness of strangers and how they were kinder to me and my children than their father. Incredible. It represented a shining light of hope for me.

ThankGodForMyDogs
ThankGodForMyDogs
6 years ago
Reply to  Tracy Schorn

I agree, weepy Thursday. Something about “you got this” comment and strangers being kinder than our husband, turned on the tears. We do “got” this! Thank you.

Rumblekitty
Rumblekitty
6 years ago
Reply to  Tracy Schorn

I thought that right after reading your post.

jumper
jumper
6 years ago
Reply to  Rumblekitty

Me too….therapeutic tears today

Anita
Anita
6 years ago

I can’t think of an example offhand. I do know that if you are ever in a relationship of any kind with a person who “delights” in the misery of others, Run. There is nothing there for you.

Newlady15
Newlady15
6 years ago

This made me weep. My memory is so damaged from abuse I can’t tell you the details but I do remember a number of strangers who patiently listened to my sordid tale when I was vomiting it to anyone who would listen. Hairdressers, repair people ministers etc etc. They validated me and while I was mortified for doing it I couldn’t seem to help myself. All kind and patient. One in particular became a friend through our shared horrors. It was part of my journey and I don’t regret it. They won’t see this but I thank every one of them for helping just a bit. I will pay it forward any time the opportunity arises. ????

WhoamInow
WhoamInow
6 years ago

When strangers are kinder to you than the person you took vows with you know getting out is the right choice.

Wow Beachgirl – that is incredibly true and I hate to think of the years I wasted accepting his shit treatment (smh).

Kathleen
Kathleen
6 years ago

Yes CL, After being cruelty abandoned for the OW ( 34 years married & cancer survivor) I was on line waiting to pay for ridiculous blouses .. style I’d never wear.
The Christmas song playing in the store brought tears & I couldn’t hold back. A elderly woman behind me asked me “Are you ok dear?)

I blurted tearfully my sad story., she put her hand on my shoulder & said “I’ve been there, it’s ok . Let her have him . He doesn’t deserve you”. I apologized trying to compose myself & thanking her for her compassion.

It wasn’t a good day but having a stranger say that to me gave me hope knowing there are good people out there.

FarBetterOff
FarBetterOff
6 years ago

The young, perky Teachers at my daughter’s school were utterly merciless. But I spoke briefly with a school counselor about scheduling time for my daughter to talk to him. My bucket slopped a little during our conversation and the counselor told me he went through the same thing himself a year before. At the first parent/teacher conference post-separation the counselor greeted the ex and I in the school hall. He gave me a look of deep sympathy, then while shakimg the exes hand looked him straight in the eye and gave him a look of deep disgust. That small act helped. A lot.

lostntx
lostntx
6 years ago
Reply to  FarBetterOff

That is awesome of him to do! I’m sure it was hard for him to shake hands but at least he gave him the “look”.

Happy Hausfrau
Happy Hausfrau
6 years ago

I thought being blindsided by an affair-driven divorce was bad (oh and it WAS). And then my mom died. My heart, which had done a semi- decent job of healing, shattered anew. Made worse by our estrangement, somehow.

I think sometimes the most dignified thing you can do is wear your grief like a huge corsage with zero fucks given as to how people will react. Going through a nightmare divorce kind of prepped me for untangling the sticky web of remorse, regret and deep, raw grief that clung to me after mom died. It taught me that yes, this sucks and it hurts but you will eventually get to the other side of it.

And just like the divorce, my mom’s death has changed me for the better. Her final gift to me was teaching me how to pluck the good from the bad. Finding the one edible bite of a big ol shit sammich.

Cripes I haven’t even read the essay and I’m already bawling. Thanks Chump Lady ?❤️

Giddy Eagle
Giddy Eagle
6 years ago
Reply to  Happy Hausfrau

The timing of this post is eerie. My mother died YESTERDAY after an epic battle with cancer. Four days before Mother’s Day. I don’t even have a grave to visit. She’s in a refrigerator at the funeral home.

And my dad, whom she has been divorced from for over 50 years, called within a minute of her death.

The STBX was gracious enough (and continually reminds me of it) to press the pause button on our fight over spousal support. He sent an incredible bouquet of flowers to reinforce that he’s a good guy. The last flowers I got from him were the sorriest flowers from the grocery store in a feeble attempt at Valentines Day a month before DDay.

I’m rambling and off topic — kindness of strangers and virtual vomiting.

I’m so incredibly thankful for the support and wisdom of this community. It gives me strength, courage and an understanding of the heartlessness of the person I married some 25 years ago.

I’m 14 months post DDay and my virtual vomiting has lessened significantly, but still spews on occasion as another violation is discovered (he was cheating before we decided to have a child — wtf?) or an epiphany hits me.

Peacekeeper
Peacekeeper
6 years ago
Reply to  Giddy Eagle

Giddy Eagle, I hope that your Mom’s passing was peaceful and that you were able to say good-bye.
Not a day goes by that many of us don’t think about our Mother.
I feel so sad that many chumps were robbed of a Mother’s love.
I am so sorry for your loss Giddy Eagle, and I send you love and wishes for strength in the days ahead.

Tempest
Tempest
6 years ago
Reply to  Giddy Eagle

I’m sorry about your mother, GiddyEagle. She lives on in your memories.

kiwichump
kiwichump
6 years ago
Reply to  Giddy Eagle

So sorry GiddyEagle, so sad that you lost your mum and you have to deal with the cheating and divorce pain. (((GiddyEagle))).

KarenE
KarenE
6 years ago
Reply to  Giddy Eagle

So sorry for your loss, Eagle. I’m sending you virtual hugs and extra CN strength to get through all this.

unicornomore
unicornomore
6 years ago
Reply to  Tracy Schorn

I know, right…not even trying to better that one.

It sounds like Hausfrau had a complicated relationship with her mom or something else was going on and I find myself reaching towards it cause my mom stuff is so messy

When I hear of folks grieving nice loving moms, I gently step away hoping they dont notice the distance because I dont live in that world and cant offer that sort of help. Mom has BPD and alcoholism and destroyed any love I ever had for her over the years. I have generic goodwill for her, but she emotionally beat my love to death a long time ago.

She was rather horrid to me right up until she became demented and now seems to be fond of me which is something I flatly dont know what to do with. I better stop …my sloppy bucket is spilling.

conniered
conniered
6 years ago
Reply to  unicornomore

Ah yes, the BPD mother. I’m 46 and just now figuring out that this is my mother. I look back and see all the emotional abuse she bestowed upon me as I became more and more independent starting in my teen years. And to this day, she demands control of my life. But, honestly, after being betrayed by the man I married, something inside me changed. I no longer have the energy to deal with her. I am tired. But I must maintain boundaries. That means cutting her off from most of my life decisions and not being concerned with what she thinks. ugh.

leli
leli
6 years ago
Reply to  conniered

I was the only child around for my BPD mother as my siblings lived the other side of the world. She trashed my wedding day. Before my first child was born she threatened to report me to the social services for child abuse. She was a demanding fucking nightmare who I constantly tried to please, and when she died I discovered that she had thrown away every single family photograph that included me and she left everything in her will to one of my siblings. I would say to anyone with a BPD mother, it’s not possible to fix them and you can never do enough for them so just do what my siblings did and politely keep your distance (ideally move to the other side of the world). If you do that you’ll save your sanity and you might even get a decent inheritance.

conniered
conniered
6 years ago
Reply to  leli

That is horrible Leli.

My mother recently raged against me because the man I am seeing invited me and my son to go fishing. She felt very strongly that i should have invited her as well. She wanted me to agree with her and accept the FACT that I am a very insensitive and thoughtless daughter…and, wait for it, I only ever think about my son! It was not my boat or my fishing trip…and I didn’t want to invite her anyway.

I have a growing list of times she has stepped in and attempted to take over HUGE events of my life. She demanded I take medication during child labor, she has called my therapist and told them to put me on medication, she has called my real estate agent and demanded answers about the sell of my house when i wouldn’t share that information with her. She did the same thing when i bought my current house. I am 46 freaking years old. And it was not the first time I have bought a house.

unicornomore
unicornomore
6 years ago
Reply to  conniered

I recently had a chance to return to Minnesota to where I lived as a child and I was sad to realize that my landmarks all over town were the liquor stores. I had 2 outings with my dad while I lived there…one to a liquor store and one to the house of a woman he had a huge crush on. ew.

So my expectation is that she will die and I simply wont care. I cared so much for so long, but that is done.

She now likes to speak freely of all of her virtues none of which she had.. she is lazy and manipulative and self absorbed. She once got on a wild kick that I didnt love my middle kid and treated me like I was an abuser. She hates my oldest because she doesnt like his name. She expects me to give her some of H1’s death money even though I have never given them a single hint of how much I have (although I think the 5 trips to Europe may have tipped her off) which likely drives her nuts.

ANR
ANR
6 years ago
Reply to  unicornomore

I’m right with you, unicornomore. My mother died 3 months ago after a descent into dementia which for the most part made her an amplified version of who she had always been (angry, self-pitying, manipulative), but which also (sometimes) let her display what seemed like genuine affection for me. I was thinking of her a couple of days ago — there’s a thing going around on Facebook where people interview their children, with the first questions being “What’s something your mom always says to you?” and “What makes your mom happy?” My immediate responses about my mother when I was a child (not that I would have dared to voice them) would have been “What’s WRONG with you?” and “Nothing.” It’s hard.

Kimhopes
Kimhopes
6 years ago

My dad has moved in with me and I finally got around to attaching the lock box on the outside of the house so emergency services could get in. I open the drill to discover the ex has taken the charger and spare battery. I did laugh, gave him points, I didn’t think he was that clever.

When I went to replace those items, I explained what happened to the lady serving me and she gave me a discount! I am past the sloppy stage, but still very humbled by the kindness of strangers.

newdaydawning
newdaydawning
6 years ago
Reply to  Kimhopes

They are clever aren’t they. x made a big deal out of leaving me tools to take care of the house. And yes everyone of them had the charger and battery missing. Like being married to a 10 year old

Newlady15
Newlady15
6 years ago
Reply to  newdaydawning

Mine took most of the tools from the house, and the cottage, and the Florida house despite the fact that he had a shop full of tools as well. Anything to shove the knife in deeper…

Feelingit
Feelingit
6 years ago

I don’t have a story about strangers but I do have a question. I am an open person but realize I regret saying certain things to certain in laws. Now, I am in a quandary about what to say acquaintances and potential new friends to not over share. We have new neighbors with whom I am now friendly. They had met stbx while they were building their house before he moved out. I have never said anything about our circumstance but I am sure they have to have figured out that he is not around. I sort of feel a need to explain but no openers have come up so I guess I should just go on waiting for it to come up naturally.

I feel the same sort of awkwardness with my kids friends parents and people at the church we have been attending regularly since he left.

It is so hard to me know what is the right info to share. I was about to say I am such a worrier but I caught myself because I know now that was one of the many gas lighting phrases cheater always used on me!

Champ
Champ
6 years ago
Reply to  Feelingit

I’m all for sharing because our history defines who we are, and I want people to know that I’ve experienced loss, and I want to know if others have, too … but I got sick of hearing myself overshare and got caught a few times sharing with people who had it much worse (it’s all relevant, but really, mine was lame compared to theirs).

So a simple phrase might work for you now. “I had a husband, but he had someone else.” or “I found three was a crowd.” or “Apparently he didn’t like me as much as I liked him.” or “I find myself starting over …” or “My marital status? Suddenly Single” … They will get the point, and they will have no chance to judge you … they will see you as someone who has experienced loss, and the ones who care will want to talk to you further.

Patience
Patience
6 years ago
Reply to  Champ

Champ, yes I simply say, well, Ya, I don’s share. My husband’s girlfriend got kinda pissy that I had a baby while they were together.

newdaydawning
newdaydawning
6 years ago
Reply to  Patience

Love that comeback!

MyRedSandals
MyRedSandals
6 years ago
Reply to  Champ

Champ, I’ve boiled my explanation down to a simple, “My husband of 40 years left me for his married coworker”. Just a few words but speaks volumes!

Marked711
Marked711
6 years ago
Reply to  MyRedSandals

Yes. Mine is “My wife of 28 yrs suddenly left me for her old high school boyfriends.”
Almost everyone just laughs. They already know how it’s going to end.

ChumpedDude
ChumpedDude
6 years ago
Reply to  Marked711

What is it with high school boyfriends? Mine did the same thing. Still waiting for that Karma bus to come around…

kiwichump
kiwichump
6 years ago
Reply to  Marked711

I just say he left me for the mistress. Locals ask me where he lives now and I say he lives with the mistress in her grandmother’s house and has a part-time job. Just the truth.

Champ
Champ
6 years ago
Reply to  MyRedSandals

Yup!!! That about does it!

My favourite comeback was, “Ex says you split up and he’s dating Poopsie” … I said, “Not in that order.”

Got-a-brain
Got-a-brain
6 years ago
Reply to  Feelingit

Oh I know. I had our garbage company call me and tell me I am overpaying on my account. I had to explain I was going through a divorce, douche locked me out of the bank accounts, and there was nothing I could do about the overpayment. It seems like as soon as you say “I’m divorcing” people automatically say “oh I’m sorry”. My automatic response to that statement is “don’t be, it’s for the best.”

I will say that for some reason (I’ve found anyway) mere acquaintances tend to pull back when you are going through divorce; as if it’s contagious and they don’t want to catch it. I’d say if you want to continue to build a relationship to just wait until you are asked, but if I had this crap all figured out I might not need to read here daily… soooo, maybe someone has better advise.

Patience
Patience
6 years ago
Reply to  Got-a-brain

Got a Brain, wow, yes, I had a dear friend “disappear” when my ex fiance left. For years, I wondered what I had done to lose that friend. She saw me one day at a coffee shop and came up to greet me. She stood there, awkwardly and said, I am sorry I abandoned you when he left. It terrified me watching you have to rebuild and find a place to live and I couldn’t watch. I was afraid of what would happen to me if my husband left.

Wow was all I could say. Years I thought I was “bad”, did something to “offend” her when it really had nothing to do with me. So now, when people act odd or become cool, I don’t automatically assume it has ANYTHING to do with me. It might, but more than likely, it doesn’t. I like living with this attitude much better. People have their own stuff, they don’t walk around obsessing about me.

UnchumpingMyself
UnchumpingMyself
6 years ago
Reply to  Feelingit

Feelingit I feel you. I don’t have any advice, really, all I can say is what I did after my divorce and after a lot of “friends” either evaporated or just proved themselves to be total assholes and were telling my ex what I was saying about what happened, while I was most vulnerable and hurt (unfortunately these people do exist). I got a therapist and shared everything there, I came here at this forum and shared my story for an empathetic response, reconnected with my extended family and childhood friends who were amazing and supported me more than I expected. And for the rest of the world, I just shut up. If they asked, answers were very short: “I am divorced. Not much to say about that, really.” And it wasn’t at all bad, because in silence I have had the time to observe people and decide whether they are worth sharing with and befriending or not. Just take your time, you will get there, keep coming here, this community is amazing. Hugs!

kaycan
kaycan
6 years ago
Reply to  Feelingit

I have found that very simple expressions to neighbors, such as “now that I’m on my own” or “now that it’s just me and the kids” have worked well in opening the door to that conversation. (Because, yeah, they have noticed, but they don’t want to say anything in case it was messy.) Once I did that, my neighbors immediately offered to keep an eye out for me, which was comforting.

With potential new friends and school parent friendships, it’s very easy to say, “well, the kids will be with their dad that weekend” or something along those lines. It’s like “code” for divorce. Everybody knows that drill, and again you are opening the door to a conversation if you/they are interested. It’s also a nice way to reach out to potential new friends, as in “my kids are gone every other weekend, and I’m looking for someone to try out the new sushi place with (or whatever).”

Queenie
Queenie
6 years ago

I was a broken stumbling wreck for years after my kids dad left and would totally tell people EVERYTHING,I would cry,I would rage,I was desperate and trapped in terrible pain and just spilled out everywhere. Many strangers were kind to me….and many friends melted away. I had such a wall around me of constant defensiveness when I was with my ex that any abuse that came my way I could handle…but kindness was so unexpected (and not what I was used to) that it threw me and id just fall to pieces in a big messy weepy jelly pile. I found it so very hard to believe that people could actually just be nice after years of cruelty,I was suspicious of their motives at first I must admit….Now I have come to realise that kindness is real and the mindfuck I existed under was NOT normal. What a hellride it has been. I’m finally finding some peace and trust in the world again. I’ll never be the same trusting woman but I am getting better.

kiwichump
kiwichump
6 years ago
Reply to  Queenie

Yep, kindness used to make me melt into tears, but I am getting used to it again. We can get used to it!

Marked711
Marked711
6 years ago

There were too many kind people to count in those first two years. The main one that stands out is my bar tender. I moved downtown to a one bedroom condo to be near work and knew no one. One day I stopped a a new bar to get a beer and a burger and Danny, the bar tender, introduced himself, asked me my name and asked “so, what’s your story?”. It seemed like the nicest question ever. I proceeded to actually cry in my beer and vomit all my details. The great thing is that he actually listened and understood and helped make a safe place for me to cry in my beer for the next year. I love all the bar keepers at First Draft. It’s my favorite place to just be understood. I know they do it for a living, but they’ve shared some of their stories and truly do understand. And they’re a lot cheaper than a shrink. 🙂

ZHUCHI
ZHUCHI
6 years ago
Reply to  Marked711

I love this and have a very nice mental image of you all there in a sort of brotherhood!

Divorce Minister
Divorce Minister
6 years ago

For me, I think of my mechanic. The dude suspected something was up between me and my now (ex) wife by the way she carried herself. (Having to deal with a car always breaking down in the midst of the mess was no fun.) He listened to me and helped me find a reliable car that I used to leave CT for MN, my home state. I am thankful for his kindness.

PF
PF
6 years ago

An elderly neighbor brought over a Mac and Cheese casserole soon after my cheating wife moved out and the house was for sale.

She said that when she divorced her ex husband it felt like a death and except there was no funeral and no wake with family and friends bringing over food.

I teared up at her words and her thoughtfulness. I’ve moved away but visit her on occasion, she’s like a grandma to me.

Vastra
Vastra
6 years ago
Reply to  PF

What a gem of a woman! It’s so true, even though you are emotionally devastated, and overwhelmed with legal and moving issues, no one steps in to help with meals or practical help like when someone dies or is having medical treatment. I guess most people don’t realise what it’s like, SGS it would take a fellow chump to do something so thoughtful.
Having said that, the day after my ex left us, a good high school friend rang out of the blue and said she had this strong urge to call me (she knew nothing of this). She was over in a flash with food and some emotional TLC.

PF
PF
6 years ago
Reply to  Vastra

I agree Vastra, she is a gem of a woman!

Your friend is also a gem!

UnchumpingMyself
UnchumpingMyself
6 years ago

In the early days of my divorce I was sharing a cab with a friend and I was telling her for the 100th time my sob story. I dropped her earlier along the way and as I was proceeding further on my way home, the cab driver turns at me and says: “Ma’m, I am sorry for eavesdropping to your conversation, but I wanted to let you know that your ex is an asshole for leaving you and your children the way he did. You are young and seem nice, and take it from a man: you will be fine! He is the loser.” Made my day, that cab driver. God bless his soul!

Chumpfor21
Chumpfor21
6 years ago

Right after DDay, I opened a mailbox at a chain mail service store. It was the first thing I did to separate my finances from him. The owner, an older man, saw my distress and said, “we are like family here.” Well I lost it. It’s amazing how grateful I was to have that empathy.

Btw – when I moved and changed cities – same franchise chain mailbox store – I was treated so kindly. Those folks must see a lot of wreckage. I still thank God for those people and how kind they were.

Newlady15
Newlady15
6 years ago
Reply to  Chumpfor21

Your post reminds me of when I opened a post office box at my local post office. I told them I needed it because my stbxh was stealing my mail(I must say allegedly here–hmph)in order to screw with my credit( a federal offense in Canada) It took a few late bills to figure it out. They just treated it as business as usual which was helpful too…no fuss no muss can be good

brandib
brandib
6 years ago
Reply to  Newlady15

I wish my post office experience had been this way. I went in to open up a new PO box in my name only. The clerk rudely informed me that I already had a PO box with my husband & she wanted to know if there was a problem. “Why yes, yes there is, Lady. He’s a lying, cheating Asshole whom I’m divorcing. Anything else you think you need to know?” I wanted to punch her in the face…but I did get me a new PO box 🙂

Sucker Punched by a Saffa
Sucker Punched by a Saffa
6 years ago
Reply to  brandib

My narc father got a post office box in town decades ago supposedly for his philately but I’m pretty sure it was also for his philandering.

No cell phones/f*ck phones in the seventies. Pretty sure he didn’t want my late mother to know exactly how much he was spending on his stamp collection (double whammy to my mother-hiding assets and cheating). We lived in a nice suburb and nobody was walking onto our acre of property to steal mail, as he “feared”.

A credit report will reveal secret post office boxes.

Paintwidow
Paintwidow
6 years ago

My kindness of strangers story is, my ex told me he was leaving on NYE 2014. He lived at our house for roughly 6 weeks after that. Within a week of him asking me for the divorce, our computer broke, our big screen TV broke, everything started falling apart in our house. The problem was I had not bought the extended warranty on our 70 inch television, and our factory warranty had literally run out a month before he asked me for the divorce. As I was in a perpetual state of weeping, my ex-husband was trying to capitalize on this and trying to negotiate the most lucrative settlement for himself, and when he wasn’t trying to get me to sign over everything (” Paintwidow, who knows where we will be in a year. If we can settle this peacefully and you don’t screw me, maybe there’s a chance for us down the road. Right now this is the right thing for me”…..yep, the whole time he had an AP he was leaving me to go live with.) he was walking around putting his name on the things in our house that he wanted, mainly the TV. I actually called Vizeo and wept on the phone to the nicest customer service rep about how I just been asked for divorce on New Year’s Eve and how my husband was a serial cheater. Do you know that that guy arranged to have a brand-new upgraded TV sent to me?? and all the paperwork on said tv came in my name?? I had it two days later. I then told my husband he could have the broken TV, since he wanted it so bad.
It was the first win I had since my world fell apart.
I don’t even know his name, but I’ll never forget him.I plan to always pay it forward,

VulcanChump
VulcanChump
6 years ago

About a month after I dumped Rhys, I was at the dentist for my six-month check. The new hygienist- a no nonsense sort – told me “Miss Vulcan, you’re too young for your gums to be in this kind of shape. Do you not floss?” I promptly lost my composure and started blubbering like a child; Rhys had said something similar before and had even said my mouth looked inflamed. The hygienist realized she’d hit a nerve and I told her and the dentist- who’s known me since I was14- the whole story. Hygienist explained the gum thing is fixable and Doc offered to call up some of his high school friends who he was pretty sure had gone into the Mafia.

NewbieChump
NewbieChump
6 years ago

I am a reserved person and have kept most of the horror story of my cheater to myself. I have shared with friends and in a small town word gets around I guess. Around Christmas time I would come home to find food, treats, gifts for my kids, money on my porch. Cheater wasn’t paying child support either so I was really struggling. These anonymous acts of kindness are what got me through in the beginning.

Cheater has also been on a smear campaign painting me as a controlling bitch who keeps the kids from him. He says he was not happy in our marriage and couldn’t take it anymore….again small town and rumors get around. I have had a few of his friends reach our to me lately to say they know what really happened and have lost all respect for him. Also I deserve better and they have the highest respect for me and let them know if I need anything. WOW! Their words brought me to tears and they will never understand how much it meant!

Champ
Champ
6 years ago

Oh, so many people … all the people you never thought would. Some old friends told me to suck it up, that no one cares about me, that the AP seems so happy with my ex. However, strangers were far nicer.

I have a huge financial hole to dig myself out of, at quite a late age in life. I was proactive, and called everyone, told everyone about my situation, that my partner had an affair and left me, I was still in the house and trying to keep it going, and I was trying to dig myself out.

My employer: They gave me a raise when they knew I was struggling on my own.

The tax departments … one woman talked to me for 10 minutes about how to survive. One man told me he understood and negotiated a more than fair payback scheme for me.

The banks … they call every month to see what that month’s payment will be on an overblown line of credit … they tell me I’m doing great and not to worry. Another bank gives me pointers on how to not lose the one remaining credit card that’s still in good standing (although over its limit). A bank reversed charges for an NSF they didn’t have to reverse … they did so because I had been in a fog and totally gapped and they understood.

The insurance company … she said, “Been there, done that, got the T-shirt … you will get out of this. Keep plugging away at it.”

The telecommunications company gave me a huge discount, guaranteed for 2 years.

The car dealer, who sold me a much-needed new car for zero interest when I had 30 cents in my bank account and the lowest credit rating one can have.

A young girl at a company … ” … but you have your dog [she heard the dog barking in the background] … that’s good, eh?” [Yes, it is, for sure.]

LovedaJackass
LovedaJackass
6 years ago
Reply to  Champ

As painful as it is, it’s good to find out the true nature of the people in your life. Anyone who says “nobody cares about you” is not and has never been your friend.

What an amazing list of kind people, though, especially surprising to see that from companies that usually seem soulless. But give yourself credit for asking for help. No one can help if you don’t ask.

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago
Reply to  LovedaJackass

A random plumber gave me a hug as I was crying. He came to install a new toilet so that I could better sell my house. I started crying when he asked my why I was selling. I told him why (threw out pervert after 31 year marriage- getting a divorce). He told me that men like him usually get what they deserve HIV, arrested in prostitution stings, beaten up by whores/Johns. That made me smile.

Sucker Punched by a Saffa
Sucker Punched by a Saffa
6 years ago

Leavingthecrapbehind,

Yup-men like this do get arrested as a part of a sting operation ! The pod (Mr. Jesus Cheater) I briefly dated last year shared with me after a few months that this happened to him ! He tried to blameshift it on his wife caring for their newborn son and his problem with “lust”. Guess what asshole-you’re not the center of attention when your wife is tending to a baby, breastfeeding and everything else !
GTFO and don’t call me again… Slowly re-etching the template I grew up with-narc father and depressed mother.

Champ
Champ
6 years ago

That’s nice of him … it’s amazing what good insights people offer when we’re thinking ex is off living happily ever after.

Not related, but a while back I was getting my bathroom fixed (falling tiles, faulty floor) and my 55-ish male repairman said, “So you’ll be without a toilet for 2 days … is that alright?” I said, “Hey! I’m 54 and female. What do you think?” He said, “Oh, you’re right … my wife’s your age. Yeah, I’ll hook it back up tonight and take it out again tomorrow to finish the work!” I love a man who can empathize with women’s bladders!!!

ICanSeeTheMehComing!
ICanSeeTheMehComing!
6 years ago

This gives me hope… I would love for Mr. Sparkles to get arrested at one of his Craiglist “group sex” parties by the airport where the women are about the age of his oldest daughter… WOULD LOVE IT! (Nope, not a meh yet!) LOL.

ARGH… he is SUCH A FUCKWIT.

ICanSeeTheMehComing!
ICanSeeTheMehComing!
6 years ago

Mr. Sparkles was not a church-goer (well – only as a means to an end). I went to church every Sunday and sat with my widowed mother in the pew. It was also one of the few ways that remained where I could see my mom without feeling like I was “neglecting” Mr. Sparkles (shocking – my Mom hated him from day one.)

When my mother passed away, I remarked to Mr. Sparkles how hard it was to go to church and sit alone in the pew. Nothing.

So, I moved my seat to the back of the church and found a lovely group of senior men who’s wives either didn’t come or went to an early service. And they “took me in”… hugs and greetings and welcoming. A year went by that I sat alone.

Then, about a month before the final D-day where Mr. Sparkles announced he was leaving, he offered to come to church with me as a way to try to FIX our marriage… as long as I would get up at 5:00am with him to watch The Walking Dead. This was his plan for us reconnecting. (YET – all the while, he was already grooming the OW and apparently building up to discard me.)

So, Mr. Sparkles comes along for two Sundays. I make a big show out of introducing him to the pew of men behind me. THIS IS MY HUSBAND, I say… so proud like.

When Mr. Sparkles stopped coming (because he decided to leave for the OW)… I was left alone in the pew again… now, no Mom… no Husband.

But these guys… men who have been friends for 50 years and sitting in that back pew together… they made a point every Sunday of talking to me and to my son… asking about “life”… but never “where is Mr. Sparkles” They lifted me back up every Sunday with their kind, non-intrusive words and their gentle eyes of understanding.

It was never about what I gushed to them, but how when then saw my tears, I feel the touch of a hand on my shoulder from the pew behind me. I was not alone.

They were and are my reminder that good men do exist. I hope my son grows up to be like one of them.

Lyn
Lyn
6 years ago

I was part of a business networking group and when I went through divorce the men in that group circled the wagons. There was a man to help finance my new home, a financial planner who helped sort my money situation, a real estate lawyer, a home inspector, and a man who would call just to be on the phone with me while I cried as I drove home to that empty house. I couldn’t even talk and he would just say, “let me keep you company on the phone.” When I blurted out to another man in the group that I’d spent 35 years with STBX, he immediately answered, “And you will have another 35 years to live. What will you do with them?” It was wonderful to get that kind of support from men after my husband walked out.

pregnant chump
pregnant chump
6 years ago

My STBX was a church goer and it feels really strange every week sitting in the pew that we sat in together with our son. Everyone has been so lovely to me and my son, they all feel as bewildered as I am as to what he has done. I think sometimes they find it hard to know what to say but they have been great with offering support etc. I know there are lots of people their I could talk to if needed. They wouldn’t understand but they will always listen and be sympathetic,

ICanSeeTheMehComing!
ICanSeeTheMehComing!
6 years ago
Reply to  pregnant chump

Hang in there PC… it was my Pastor (who married us) that remarked that God will push people out of your life (as much as he brings them)… keep your faith. If you’re going through troubled waters, it is because your enemies can’t swim.

zyx321
zyx321
6 years ago

Mine is a random act of kindness story.
When I was a kid our holiday tradition was going to a neighbor’s property to cut down a xmas tree.
When ex and I moved to current town, we found a self cut tree farm, and continued the tradition.
First December post divorce decision, I enter with the kids. It was not a great day, heavy mist, but we went after school to beat the weekends crowds. I thought I was doing ok with the divorce at that time, but in hindsight I must have had a “look”
I struck up a conversation with an older gentlemen while the kids fetched the wagon and saw, told him about my children tradition and continuing it with the kid so– made no mention of divorce, etc.
When the kids and I returned with our tree, I was told the gentleman had paid for it. Still tears me up thinking about it. I had the money, but here was a random stranger who wanted to make my day better,

Free Vix
Free Vix
6 years ago
Reply to  zyx321

That is really sweet. ❤

HathNoFuryGoddess
HathNoFuryGoddess
6 years ago

THIS.

A co-worker who barley knew me said I could stay with her after DDay when I had no where to go. She had 2 kids, 2 dogs, going through a hard time herself. But she still helped. I broke down in the office.

When I left the west coast for good, a few months after DDay, I just had my cats, and a carry-on bag on the plane. The cat crates I got weren’t right, so the guy at the airline check in, said “hey no problem, I’ll just take those and you can have these.” I am sure I would normally of had to buy them. I teared up, saying thank you, shaking all over.

On the plane, the stewardess gave me a vodka cranberry. 2 of them. No charge. Just looked at me and smiled. Haha, I must have looked like I needed it. I did. Longest flight of my life, leaving it all behind.

I’ll never forget​ this. Maybe it wasn’t much these things, but it helped me keep my sanity and get me to a safe place.

Mamabear
Mamabear
6 years ago

Within the same week of him moving out my son was diagnosed w/ a chronic autoimmune disease. Talk about a one-two sucker punch. We had an appointment shortly after with one of his specialists who was a kind woman whose children remarkably had the same names as mine. The ex & I spoke to her in private after the appointment to let her know what was going on as stress can be a trigger with his disease. Later that afternoon the ex & I got into a huge argument over the phone and I was left in a puddle of tears, seething in the middle of my office (luckily I was alone in the office that day.) A few minutes later my phone rings. It’s the Dr. She just wanted to call because she sensed the situation was really bad and wanted to make sure I was alright and did I need any help. Apparently I didn’t have as good a poker face as I thought. I was so grateful for her reaching out to me. I felt relief and it touched my heart enough that I could pick myself up off the ground and take a deep breath. And just this week I had the opportunity to reach out to a stranger as she broke down publicly. I didn’t turn away-I grabbed her hand and offered her words of reassurance and she held on tightly. And it felt so natural.

SouthernShine74
SouthernShine74
6 years ago

The first weekend I had to let go of my boys (7 month old and 2 year old) to go spend their first weekend with the ex, I was so lost. No family or friends…..I was a momma, wife, and daughter-in-law all my married life and now that was no longer. I found myself inside a Sam’s Club….I didn’t even need anything….notta. But I couldn’t go our empty home. I was walking in circles over and over. I finally purchased a coke and settled into a big, comfy recliner on the furniture isle and people watched. I was there for more than 6 hours…..sitting. When I realized the pitifulness of my life I began to quietly sob in that recliner. An older woman stopped and asked me what was wrong and I completely fell apart and told her my story. She sat and listened and held my hand. She prayed aloud for me to find comfort. I was overwhelmed with thankfulness and emotion…..she was a total stranger. I didn’t even get her name but I will never forget her face and her kindness. I think she was planted there for a reason…..I finally got up and walked out of the store realizing that just bc my ex, ex-in-laws, and OW were evil, not everyone was. I wish I could say that I never spend hours sitting alone in Sam’s again bc I did but I can say that I finally no longer do!!

conniered
conniered
6 years ago

I didn’t necessarily think of the kindness of strangers on this post but I do remember overwhelming kindness from acquaintances.

I had finally sold the marital home, the buyers weren’t backing out and I had to pack….asap. It was the 4th of July weekend. I posted on FB that I needed help and there would be beer and pizza. Those who showed up surprised me. Two other single moms that I’d recently met, one of their boyfriends, a newly separated male friend, a homeschooling family I knew and the wife’s sister who’d just moved to NC from California (she bought a ton of my furniture too) and my parents.

People threw stuff in boxes, torn down beds to carry down stairs. And, I’ll never forget, one of the single moms packed up my wedding albums. She looked at me and asked me what I wanted to do with them and I couldn’t respond. I was going to sob in the the worst way in that very moment. And she recognized it. She said, “Nevermind, I’ll take care of it.” and smiled at me. I could not even convey the relief I felt for that bit of kindness and understanding.

Later that weekend, the ex emailed me to let me know he was moving in with the Whore. We weren’t even divorced yet. And my son was having a birthday in one week. These people are such unbelievably callus and selfish. It boggles the mind.

Thank you for this today. I needed it. I still feel wounded at times. Grief is not linear. I wish others understood that more than they do.

ICanSeeTheMehComing!
ICanSeeTheMehComing!
6 years ago
Reply to  conniered

THIS – Grief is not linear…. nailed it.

I’m almost 3 years since Mr. Sparkles left for the OW. The divorce was final this past December. The OW dumped him and he’s already living with a new GF and having her around my son (now 11). And, I still can’t find MEH… It’s closer. I trust that he sucks. But he is still in my dreams sometimes and I wake up thinking I miss him. But, feelings aren’t facts. And, if I have more grieving to do then let’s get it on. I want to feel it… heal it… and get to Meh!

conniered
conniered
6 years ago

I’m 3 years out too, same as you. My divorce was final in October 2015. I have moved on, closer to meh most days, but sometimes a memory pops up or something triggers a memory. Those things can not be helped/controlled.

I would have never imagined the depth of the pain of betrayal. It does leave a forever scar. And even though I have moved on and created a brand new life for myself, the pain is there…hiding. Mostly, the broken bits allow the love to pour out….and love to come in.

the journey sucks
the journey sucks
6 years ago

I took my kids to the Grand Canyon the holiday weekend he left to “think about things,” but really was on a vacation with AP. As me and my three young kids drove the distance, I kept thinking how strong I was, limited budget, but “Look at me! Driving to the Grand Canyon! Who needs him!” We got to the hotel and I was at the front desk, surrounded by numerous other, intact families with the Dad’s checking in their families and found out I had booked for the NEXT night and there were no rooms anywhere in the city or surrounding areas. All that was available was the honeymoon suite for $1000. I knew my credit card wouldn’t hold a charge of $1000. I felt the sorrow build up in me from somewhere very, very deep. My soul just gave up. My chin was shaking and tears were welling up as I squeaked out to the check-in clerk that “my husband has left us and I don’t have the ability to pay for the suite…and I couldn’t even continue to speak as the emotions I was trying to keep down just exploded all over that hotel foyer. I turned to leave with my kids, but then laid my head down on the counter and just sobbed, eventually just slowly rolling down on the floor, completely losing any composure I had left. I absolutely could not stop the flow of tears and gut-wrenching pain. My poor kids sat on the floor with me while everybody stared. My 14 year old son gathered my things and tried to get me to the car when this amazing, incredible hotel manager saw the ruckus and everyone staring and gave us the honeymoon suite for free. I was still on the floor, didn’t know what was happening. The manager let my older boy sign for the room and gave him the keys. I feel terrible about my kids stepping in to take care of me – but they are now strong, compassionate young men.

Patience
Patience
6 years ago

The Journey…I got chills reading your story. I know that pain, we all do. What wonderful boys you raised! Huggs.

kaycan
kaycan
6 years ago

This is such a beautiful, raw, and powerful story. I can so relate to feeling on top of the world one moment and being brought to your knees the next. I can feel your pain and anguish, too.

Early days, when my teen son sometimes caught me crying or exhausted, he would ask if I was okay. I would tell him, “This is hard” or “I feel sad” and then say, “but it’s going to be okay.” My son is (like me) a heart-on-his-sleeve kid, and it was an opportunity to let him see that sometimes we just need to cry. There is no shame in that. I suspect your hotel meltdown had a similar quality for your kids, so please don’t feel terrible. You got up again, and your kids saw that, too.

GetMeFree
GetMeFree
6 years ago
Reply to  kaycan

My daughter would also get really concerned in those early days when I would start crying. I started telling her that I was having a really bad day and that tomorrow would be better. Every time tomorrow came and I WAS better, she stopped looking at me with fear. Pretty soon, those bad days started getting farther apart and her confidence that we would be okay grew.

Life is really hard sometimes and the best we can do is reassure our kids that we will figure it out. It may be different than what we had planned, but it will still be okay.

conniered
conniered
6 years ago
Reply to  kaycan

10000 times yes. They saw you get up again.

conniered
conniered
6 years ago

OMG. I can just see you now. All that pain. I”m so sorry that happened to you. And thank God for the kindness of others.

KathleenK
KathleenK
6 years ago
Reply to  conniered

Beautiful story that had me in tears. I think it’s good for kids to see real life authentic emotions. That was raw and real and no gaslighting – and you did get up off that floor, didn’t you.

GetMeFree
GetMeFree
6 years ago

My STBX walked out after 20 years of marriage, 2 pre-teens, and when I was 6 months pregnant. When my baby was 4 months old, she had her first seizure. At 7 months, she was given a diagnosis of a rare and severe form of epilepsy. Everytime I met with a doctor…the neurologist, the geneticist, the pediatrician, etc, they would ask where her dad was. I then had to reveal that he left when I was pregnant. A couple of them would ask if he was the same dad to my other two. When the answer was yes, most could not keep their professionalism and would let a look of utter disgust cross their face or let a comment such as “wow, how do you do that” slip out.

That just validated that he was NOT normal and cruel. Nobody deserves the treatment he gave not just to me but to our children. They would then start asking about me and what kind of support I had to not only get through that but for what was to come with my daughter. They brought in others to help me get through countless applications for aid and programs. They took my mom aside to make sure that I would have the support that not only my daughter would need but that I would need. These people who I barely knew made me feel valuable when my own husband made me feel worthless.

SheChump
SheChump
6 years ago
Reply to  GetMeFree

GetMeFree – this is probably one of the worst stories of DD’s I’ve heard. What kind of animal does this to a family he helped produce? What? He couldn’t ‘handle’ the tween years? Couldn’t handle a beautiful new baby he impregnated his beautiful wife with……I’m just…..wow – he is the devil incarnate. I’m so glad the village stepped in to assist you. I can’t imagine what it would be like to navigate these waters with so many pressures of the kids on you, and you alone. I hope it has worked out for you, so far. I would like your cowardly x’s address and I am taking over my 3 Danes to take care of him.

Got-a-brain
Got-a-brain
6 years ago

Of all people, my gynecologist has been so nice through this ordeal. The first time I went in for STD testing ( because douche decided unprotected sex with a stripper was a good idea) he was so calm and said, “you’d be surprised how common this is.” I was a blubbering mess and felt so embarrassed, I think he could tell I felt like the only one in the world who this has happened to. Fast forward 5 years, and again I’m in for STD testing because douche was sleeping with escorts. This time though, I held my head high and announced this would be the last time I would be doing this because douche was a done deal! He spent a good amount of time telling me which were the best lawyers in town, who was part of the “boys club” and in with the judges (which he clearly detested, but knew it would benifit me). He’s an older man and has delivered all of my children. I dread the day he decides to retire! Yes, I realize saying that about your gynecologist is, well…. odd, but he has been one of a few that I felt were completely on my side through this whole ordeal. Plus he told me he always thought my ex was a douche ?.

QueenMother
QueenMother
6 years ago
Reply to  Got-a-brain

Wow!!

What a gift from heaven your doctor was!!

I liked my gynecologist because he said, “Too bad these men don’t come with a sign that says — ”

And I finished his sentence, “I’m a piece of shit!”

kiwichump
kiwichump
6 years ago
Reply to  Got-a-brain

Got-a-brain, having your gynecologist call your husband a douche is great. But logically, gynecologists should all be like yours because they know exactly the risks all these cheaters expose their wives to, and their job is keep women healthy in this area. So cheating husbands are always undoing the good work gynecologists are trying to do. Gynecologists should be natural enemies of cheaters.

Pearshaped
Pearshaped
6 years ago
Reply to  Got-a-brain

Having your gynecologist call your husband a douche is just so….well…perfect.

K findingmyway
K findingmyway
6 years ago

After separation from STBX, before I was able to speak of the reason, friends showed up. Some just sat and listened to my pain, I was invited out to dinners, received phone calls and emails, just to check in. A margarita inspired piñata bashing credited a bond with some other chumps. The support and love I have been given from my sister and my children have fueled my resolve. The widows, that have lost husbands have been the most understanding of grief and loss. Church friends and counselors are always there when needed. I need them all. I am beginning to understand that it will take years to process the abuse of long term infidelity. I pray you all have an army to surround and support you.

LovedaJackass
LovedaJackass
6 years ago

This isn’t a betrayal story but it shows first, that there are people who pay attention to others and, second, that we chumps can make progress. Recently I was sitting through a public event a few days after the very early death of someone close to me. The nature of the event brought back a lot of memories about a hopeful time in her life. I wasn’t crying, and I was fully present. It was just that time collapsed a little and I could be there and feel that other time simultaneously.

Afterwards, an acquaintance came up to me and asked, “Are you all right?” And I could smile a little at the kindness and say, “The person who died was my good friend.”
He said, “Oh, that’s right. What a terrible loss for us all.”

Four years ago, I would have just shrugged off his concern because my emotions embarrassed me. Not now. Sometimes I don’t share the cause; I just say “This brought back memories” or “It’s been a tough week.” Other times, I just acknowledge the source of grief. Good people understand because they feel the same way. I’m lucky; in my work I get lots of opportunities to notice young people who are struggling and I can pay these kindnesses forward.

Roberta
Roberta
6 years ago

Well, my cheater passed away on Monday of pancreatic cancer. Of course, I was with him and so were my kids. (Didn’t see Schmoopie anywhere around for those last moments!). Believe it or not, I’m glad we were there for him. Of course we are making the arrangements for his final rest (again, where is Schmoopie and the cheating cheerleader team? Oh yeah, no fun here!). But I digress, kindness of strangers during my hospital stays with cancer was over the top! I was astounded at the number of nurses and hospital staff who had been chumped horrifically and shared their stories of heartbreak and survival. I began to believe that just about everyone had been cheated on as if it were an epidemic! But I also got the end result, these folks were living proof that you can not only survive, but thrive! My medical care from them was outstanding, but my mental state was immeasurably improved by these strong, fearless folks. They had been through the fire and survived. It gave me the hope I needed! They “got” it! Now I am running myself ragged planning a funeral and it is tough given my health. I was out buying things in preparation for the funeral and the last store was crowded at the register. The gentleman ahead of me finally had his turn and he told the cashier, “please take this lady first”. I thanked him and I was forever grateful for that tiny act of generosity. I thanked him and he was very gracious. How could he have known I was hurting physically and mentally! God bless him! It made my day! If I had to hand write letters to each and every person who in some short and small way who helped me get through this, I dare say I would be busy every second of the day. This is one of the biggest reasons Chumplady and Nation are so very important. She posts the “mighty” letters and stories of each and everyone of us go through on our journeys through the shitstorm. Without this blog I don’t think we would have done so well. It gives us clarity and helps us focus during the worst time of our lives! So, a huge THANK YOU TO ALL AT CHUMPLADY AND CHUMP NATION! No finer people exist than right here! My tribe!

FreeWoman
FreeWoman
6 years ago
Reply to  Roberta

All I can say, Roberta, is you are a beautiful and kind person. You have an understanding of the big picture. Bless you and your kids, too.

jumper
jumper
6 years ago
Reply to  Roberta

Roberta, I so admire you strength. I would, or will, do the same.

FMT
FMT
6 years ago
Reply to  Roberta

I’m so sorry for this latest upheaval in your life, Roberta. You have had to contend with so much and have done it with such strength, grace, and humour. Prayers and blessings to you and your family.

ICanSeeTheMehComing!
ICanSeeTheMehComing!
6 years ago
Reply to  Roberta

Roberta – you are mighty. I don’t mind taking the high road (usually)… because I know I’ll meet people like you there. Peace be with you through this time.

NoKibble4U
NoKibble4U
6 years ago

Roberta, you truly are a wonderful person. Hugs to you.

Peacekeeper
Peacekeeper
6 years ago
Reply to  NoKibble4U

Roberta,
I hope your children honour you on Mother’s Day. ( and every day). How courageous and brave of you to be with them at their father’s death bed. He is one very fortunate person.
I am sure that the medical staff caring for you in your illness saw what a brave, one of a kind, person you are. It was, and it is, their privilege to administer their care and emotional support to a very special lady.
Many hugs, Mighty Lady!

Roberta
Roberta
6 years ago
Reply to  Peacekeeper

Thank you to all who replied. I actually gave in and took care of him with my kids the last few months. It was exhausting, but hospice was unbelievably helpful too. Talk about great folks. He really has no one to care for him if not his kids and me. He found out the hard way that the OW was nothing more than a party loving, golddigging HO! All the cheerleaders on Facebook evaporated. Good thing we were there for him towards the end. He was bedridden, no muscle left to walk. Not strong enough to even lift a glass of water to his mouth. It was pitiful, but I have no regrets and I make no apologies to anyone for being a decent human being. Believe me, there was a time when I would have told anyone I would never help him. You just can’t say never. My kids were great to him too and it helped bring him happiness in those last days. I’m proud of all of us for coming to his aid.

happily ever after
happily ever after
6 years ago
Reply to  Roberta

Roberta–You have been a mentor to me from the start. I am over-the-top in awe that you could sit with your cheating X and now plan the funeral. I’m pretty sure I will not be able to do that when/if the time comes. I wish the best for you and your kids. I am sending good-health vibes your way.

Sorry for your loss? Really don’t know what to say…

DirtyWater
DirtyWater
6 years ago

I’ve been planning the ex’s funeral for about 10 years . . .

Datdamwuf
Datdamwuf
6 years ago
Reply to  DirtyWater

I plan on attending exassholes funeral, just to make sure he’s really dead…

Sugar Plum
Sugar Plum
6 years ago

You are so much better of a person than I am. I no longer wish my X anything but to leave me alone, but I’d let him rot in his own misery and loneliness. I couldn’t stomach being around him even if he were dying. I get extremely nauseous around him. Literally. I wouldn’t even feel guilty either. Probably makes me a bad person but I try to be a better person in other ways.

JC
JC
6 years ago

I had two work colleagues–T and E–that were going through (or had just finished) divorce at the same time as me.

I had never really connected with either of them, and in fact had a negative feeling toward T due to her undefinable role (and relatively high paycheck) at our firm.

But I wanted some on-the-ground, non-legal advice about getting divorced in my state, so I asked them.

Each separately went out with me for happy hour, during which we each got to tell our divorce story. I was the only one who had a story involving cheating, and it was definitely more than they expected to hear. But they were kind and supportive.

I didn’t become friends with either of them. As time went by, we drifted back to our old relationships, as polite acquaintances. A year after my divorce was final, I left the company to try a new job in a different city.

But I’ll always be thankful for them, and others like them, who got “more than they bargained for” in asking about my divorce.

So many of us need to tell our story, repeatedly, to get through the healing process. We need to affirm that this is happening/happened, and to hear that we weren’t crazy or unreasonable for feeling what we feel. And sometimes relative strangers can fill that need.

It’s like that line from 20th Century Women:

“I don’t know if we ever figure our lives out. And the people who help you–they may not be who you thought, or wanted. They just might be the people who show up.”

ChumpOnIt
ChumpOnIt
6 years ago

I have commiserated with people whom I would consider friends of friends, new coworkers, etc. who have been super supportive. Some have gone through similar situations (or worse), and some are just good sympathizers/listeners. Even my HR person at work answered my questions regarding how to handle health insurance, etc. when starting my new job (a result of separation, as I was a SAHM previously) with a “I’ve been there, so I can help you out.” It’s sad how often this happens to people, but it does create quite a support system for us chumps.

On a side note, anyone else’s emotional bucket just keep filling back up? I just filed paperwork yesterday, so I’m fresh at this, and it seems like it’s not just vomit, it’s a chronic illness. And I’ve had the support of friends, my family, acquaintances, strangers…

Free Vix
Free Vix
6 years ago

About a week or two after D-day, after having fled to my parent’s house with my toddler several states away, I was out with a group of friends who all knew what happened and dragged me to an art exhibit. They had also invited someone new who had just moved to the area and was planning her wedding. She kept bubbling over about her fiancé and her wedding plans, and it was enough to really get to me since my wedding to my then-partner of a decade had been months before. She was a stay-at-home fiancée and I wrote her off as flighty with little sense of her own identity. But I kept my mouth shut as she went on about her finance and wedding because her joy wasn’t mine to spoil. Then she turned and asked “How are you?” I responded “Me? I’m full of rage.” I expected her to give me a wide-eyed look and move on. But she didn’t. Instead she said “May I ask why?” So I told her the gory truth, and she didn’t flinch. For the rest of the evening she made it a point to come talk to me any time I was alone, and she was not deterred by my sloppy grief and anger. She even invited me to meet her for a glass of wine sometime, and I went, and we became fast friends. I even met the famous fiancée (who is a good man I now consider a friend) and ultimately went to their wedding. She remains a very good friend, and was always there any time I needed to talk or vent. She had been chumped by a long term boyfriend and was no stranger to what I was feeling.

This experience was significant for me because I expected strangers to be repulsed by my grief, and it turns out that good people don’t react that way. That was revolutionary to me, and was a step forward in fixing my picker regarding the people in my life.

JesssMom
JesssMom
6 years ago
Reply to  Free Vix

>>”This experience was significant for me because I expected strangers to be repulsed by my grief, and it turns out that good people don’t react that way.”

This was a hard lesson learned for me as well.

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago
Reply to  JesssMom

Strangers have been kinder to me than my pervert and his family. I have been saying that since the day I got married.

Sugar Plum
Sugar Plum
6 years ago

Every Christmas, prior to divorce, I grabbed several tree angels. The boys got a tree angel each, and I grabbed two, one for me and one for my husband. I would also make a generous donation. We, the boys and I, had a blast shopping for clothes and toys for these anonymous children. Should have been a big red flag that X never came along or wanted to do something kind for others less fortunate. Then, the year of the discard was also the year my youngest graduated and moved away to college.
That Christmas I only grabbed one tree angel. I just stood there remembering and tearing up. There were three older ladies. They were 80+ if they were a day. They thanked me and asked if that was all I wanted to take. I lost it. Just started bawling because I was so ashamed that I couldn’t afford to do more for these children. I explained I had just gone through a divorce, my husband left me for a girl 20 years younger, and he’d emptied the accounts. They just smiled and one laughed and said, “Oh, is that all?”. I was flabbergasted. But then they proceeded to pat me and make soothing noises. All three of those women had been through the same thing decades before. They were so kind. Telling me it was his loss because i was such a looker, kind, etc. He’d be sorry one day and that I would easily get passed all of this nonsense and find a much better man. All three told me how glad they were that their first husband’s left, but it took a couple of years to feel this way. That their “new” husbands were so good to them. It made me realize just how often this happened and just how kind complete strangers could be. I left there with much more confidence, because hey, don’t you know I’m a “looker”, than I did walking in. I also realized that it’s ok to let other’s help me from time to time. We all go through financial distress during life. It’s nothing to be ashamed of to ask for help, financial or otherwise. Great bunch of ladies.

kaycan
kaycan
6 years ago

The weekend CheaterEx traveled North to visit (a.k.a., screw) his “twu wuv” for the first time (they were long distance Facebook/text/sext/phone soul mates), I found myself at the mall, just walking around in a daze. One of those foreign mall kiosk guys stopped me (“Excuse me, pretty lady, can I see your nails?”) and I was too sad, exhausted, and lost to run away. I listened to him, watched him buff my nails. Then he says, joking, as part of his scripted sales pitch, “So, are you married, or happy?” I lost it. Sobbing, tears, and snot bubbles, the whole ugly story rolled out of me while this poor guy with slicked-back hair just held my hand and listened. When I finished, he gave me a hug. He looked me in the eye, told me I was beautiful and that my husband was an idiot. He was 24 years old (I’m in my mid-40s) and he offered to give me his number, which made me laugh.

I bought the stupid nail buffer, not because I needed it, but because I appreciated what he had done for me in that moment. I still have it, two and a half years later, and I still smile when I see it in my vanity drawer.

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago

Every time a workman comes to my house to make a repair to get my house ready for sale- they always ask “why are you selling?” Then….I break down in tears. I tell them I am selling because I found out my husband had a secret double life with hookers, porn, webcam hoes and anonymous “hook ups’ he fished off the internet.

One man (a carpenter) told me “Real men don’t buy sex” and “Real men do not treat their wives like that.” I loved that guy!

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago

I still work to hold back the tears in public. When I see happy couples milling about……I still get a sense of sadness- even though I am better off without the liar/cheater/pervert. I think I am grieving for the life I “wished” I had with Pervy Pants…..the years I wasted on him. More so than missing him.

Better Alone
Better Alone
6 years ago

Happened a couple weeks back… As per our settlement agreement, the genius was to get some furniture from the house. His list contained all of the pieces I picked myself and that I love. He had already moved out a year before. Our kids were wondering what he was going to do with it. Anyway… After scheduling and him canceling at the last minute over a period of 9 months, the day finally came. When the movers showed up, they presented me with a detailed list of what they had to pick up. That’s when I found out he was donating everything to a local charity. The furniture went and me and the kids went three days with no place to sit other than the kitchen chairs. That is until I figured out I could go to the charity and get my furniture back. When I told the story to the person there, he went out of his way to help me out. He got me a discount because he could not just give everything back, He was telling every one in the building what had happened, he kept telling me he was sorry, that my ex was a very bad person, that people were not all bad… That place was filled with reformed convicts working there in a rehabilitation program and they ALL showed me more grace and kindness that the genius ever did.

Datdamwuf
Datdamwuf
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

Wow, I’m glad you were able to get the stuff back.

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

A heartless monster! So glad he is out of your life! Charles Manson would have more “decent” about the furniture than your X!

FMT
FMT
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

Well, your ex wins the prize for pure spiteful vindictiveness.

FMT
FMT
6 years ago
Reply to  FMT

Posted before I finished. This is actually the most spiteful thing I’ve read on this blog. Wow–you chose your user name well for sure! So glad you and your kids are rid of him. ((hugs))

StigOfTheChump
StigOfTheChump
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

That is one of the cruelest, most assholey things I have heard in a long time. He would do that to not just you, but his children. He truly, TRULY sucks.

conniered
conniered
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

That is a fantastic story of compassion. Your ex is truly a horrid person.

ICanSeeTheMehComing!
ICanSeeTheMehComing!
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

Pretty please with a cherry on top… can I have your X’s address?!?!? What a fucker… just speechless.

When a reformed convict is a better person than a NPD fuckwit… ARGH!

Definitely not a meh today, sorry gang.

jumper
jumper
6 years ago

I am so not MEH today. And,I haven’t cried this much in a long time.

GetMeFree
GetMeFree
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

How I can still be surprised by the cruelty and lack of conscience these morally bankrupt jerks can be is beyond me…yet your story did just that.

KathleenK
KathleenK
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

omg what an asshole. And yes, I’m sure he rehabilitated convicts were kinder…

happily ever after
happily ever after
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

Un-effing-believable!
That is the lowest, most despicable thing I’ve ever heard.

Bless the strangers who showed kindness and support!

OutOfSparkles
OutOfSparkles
6 years ago
Reply to  Better Alone

Oh my god – truly, what a bastard!

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago

I do know one thing- if I meet a fellow chump with newly bloodied heart and mind- I can be strong for him/her. I can be compassionate and helpful. I will not say stupid trite things or blame the poor chump in anyway. I will also give the new chump a copy of Tracy’s book!

pregnant chump
pregnant chump
6 years ago

My midwife has been absolutely fantastic, I had gone to my doctor almost straight after D-day as there was no way I was going to be able to go into work. When the midwife read what they had written on my notes, she said OMG I’m so sorry and then proceded to tell me that her husband had had an affair. They had reconciled for a bit but she divorced him in the end. When I went in on Monday she said she had spoken to the health visitors and the midwives at the birth centre so they know what has happened and they know not to ask too many questions. She also said you don’t want him to come to the birth centre do you? I said no and she said good I think we would all rip him to shreds if he did try and turn up. I know she was joking but it’s really great to know there are people who are looking out for you and really do care.

GetMeFree
GetMeFree
6 years ago
Reply to  pregnant chump

So glad you have people to support you. Take it from someone who has been there, it will be hard and emotional, but these people will help you find the blessings that will be there. Namely, that precious new baby.

pregnant chump
pregnant chump
6 years ago
Reply to  GetMeFree

Thank you it’s a really scary time but I have lots of lovely friends and family for support. I am just hoping that the future will be ok, and I will be able to enjoy my new baby and my DS will be able to enjoy quality time with his sibling. X

GetMeFree
GetMeFree
6 years ago
Reply to  pregnant chump

It will be okay. Sometimes, I think God gave me and my 2 other kids my baby girl to HELP us get through this hell. On days when it felt really bad for all of us, she would do something new or smile or any of those things babies do and we would all smile or laugh. She has brought us so much joy and helped us pull together as a team and family.

pregnant chump
pregnant chump
6 years ago
Reply to  GetMeFree

I think I’m just really sad about the time I will be loosing with my children. I know I just need to be the sane parent etc and that I have no control over this situation and the choices he made. I also know that there are so many chumps here who have it worse than me.

Trying to Cope 27
Trying to Cope 27
6 years ago
Reply to  pregnant chump

So sorry to hear what you’ve been through, pregnant chump. I definitely agree with what GetMeFree said – that baby will help give you the strength you need to get through this hard time. I know my daughter has done that for me. She was still a tiny baby when the cheater left us. Even on the darkest days, my daughter gives me a reason to smile. And even on those days when I’m exhausted and just want to give up, I remember that I’m the sane parent and that we are lucky to have each other. I know that I have an opportunity to help shape her into the best person she can be. Men who do that though to expectant moms, new moms, and well, really anyone? Ugh, they truly are the worst. Glad to hear that your midwife and her colleagues have been so sympathetic.

pregnant chump
pregnant chump
6 years ago

I’m so sorry to read your stories these cheaters are really something else. I don’t understand how they can justify their actions to themselves and to the OW. Thank you both for the encouragement my DS is very excited about being a big brother so they are both keeping me going.

Trying to Cope 27
Trying to Cope 27
6 years ago

On my D Day, it was a TSA agent who was the first to comfort me. I will always be grateful to her for the hug and kind words she provided to me.

My infant daughter and I had flown to a beach town to spend a week with my now STBX who was teaching at a university out of state. It was his spring break. It was supposed to be a relaxing and joyful reunion. He told me about the OW, a student of his, a woman 14 years his junior, on a car ride to the beach three days into our vacation. He offered to go to therapy but said that he would not stop seeing her, that he loved her, that our marriage was “broken.” After much sobbing and shouting, I demanded that he take me to the airport as soon as I could pack up my stuff. As we stood on the curb at departures, I told him to “Have a nice life” and never looked back. When I was going through security, I was doing my best to hold back tears, but a quivering lip and bloodshot eyes gave me away. As I clumsily loaded my suitcase and my daughter’s stroller frame onto the conveyor belt of the x-ray machine, the agent said to me, “Aw, honey. Are you leaving some special behind?” The dam broke, and I wailed in response, “No, but my husband just told me he’s having an affair. She’s a student of his. He says he loves her, and he won’t stop seeing her. So I’m going home…” After a look of utter shock, she hugged me, helped me gather my things, walked with me the rest of the way through security, and said, “Oh, honey, I am so sorry. I promise you will find a good man someday. You deserve better than that. So much better. You take care.” Her kindness to me that day meant the world to me.

NoKibble4U
NoKibble4U
6 years ago

I am sobbing. Thank God for people that are kind-hearted and it means even more when it comes from an unlikely source.

Trying to Cope 27
Trying to Cope 27
6 years ago
Reply to  NoKibble4U

Agreed! I never would have expected it, especially from someone in a line of work that generally calls for a very serious demeanor. That TSA agent was a true blessing. And really, on that awful day, every person who smiled at me as I walked through that airport (because I sure did look like a total wreck!) made me feel less alone and gave me hope.

newdaydawning
newdaydawning
6 years ago

i didn’t realize how poorly x treated me until the divorce when simple kindness from strangers made me cry. That’s when I realized I couldn’t even remember the last time x had said something kind to me. After dday I was on the phone with the credit card company trying to straighten things out. Didn’t mention my personal problems. At the end of the call the representative made a comment that I sounded like a very kind person. I cried for an hour after I hung up.
I hadn’t told anyone at work about my divorce but since x was all over FB the gossip got around. I never spoke of it, thought I was doing a good job of hiding my emotions. On my birthday my coworkers threw me a surprise party with all my favorite foods. Only time in the 15 years I’d worked there. I cried all the way home after work, partly because they were sensitive to the fact this was my first birthday on my own but also because they actually knew what my favorite foods were. Something x never knew after 34 years of marriage. I also try to pay it forward.

Lola
Lola
6 years ago

Yesterday, two different ladies told me that my sons are gorgeous, just like their mother. My husband and his family always made me feel so ugly. He used to say that they take their beauty after him. And yesterday I wasn’t at my best :). I was thinking that is pretty fucked up to be appreciated by strangers and to be put down every single time by the people you consider the closest, and dearest.

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago
Reply to  Lola

Lola- amen to that dear fellow chump! It seems these disordered cheaters are stingy with everything- including goodwill, compliments and decency,

Leavingthecrapbehind
Leavingthecrapbehind
6 years ago

The emotional damage the pervert inflicted on me could not be hidden. I was devastated when I found out about his secret life and voyeurism. I felt sick for weeks (vomiting, nausea). I felt like a wounded animal.
Strangers helped scrape me off the ground.

KathleenK
KathleenK
6 years ago

Leaving, did you read the article that was linked yesterday? I know we have similar stories and for some reason that article really validated me and helped me understand my vomiting and nausea as well… So nice to be past that!

nodancing
nodancing
6 years ago

I was at my doctor and the nurse marveled at my 30 pound weight loss since the year before. I said i was getting divorce, the ex had cheated. She told me all about he ex who left a post-it note for her to find when she got home from work when he left her for another woman. It was a cheerful convo but there was an unspoken acknowledgment that we each understood the pain of it. Chumps are everywhere, and chumps are strong.

conniered
conniered
6 years ago
Reply to  nodancing

so true. It feels like every other person i meet here lately is a chump. Best and sweetest people ever.

newdaydawning
newdaydawning
6 years ago

On one of his trips to pick up his things x called the sheriff to accompany him as a power play to try and take things he wasn’t allowed to have. The sheriff of course stuck to the decree and didn’t allow him to ransacke me. This sent x into a huge rage. As he stood there ranting the sheriff asked if I was taking back my maiden name. I told him no that I had to many areas to do it in. He stood there a minute watching x then said “whether you legally change it or not, if I were you I’d introduce myself by my maiden name in the future.” It was such a relief to see that I was not the only one who thought he was an ass.