As a nurse, I’ve learned to put others first. But when my husband, Garrett, abandoned our sick children and me for a beach vacation, something inside me snapped. It was the final straw in a long string of selfish acts that had become all too familiar.
I’d been shouldering the bulk of childcare responsibilities for years, all while working demanding shifts at the hospital. Garrett, on the other hand, seemed content to spend his free time indulging in his hobbies, leaving me to manage the household and care for our kids, Zach and Penny.
When the kids fell ill and our family vacation had to be cancelled, Garrett’s response was predictable. He packed his bags and left for the beach, leaving me to deal with the chaos.
I was furious, but I didn’t let my anger consume me. Instead, I channeled it into something productive. I decided to sell all of Garrett’s prized possessions – his fishing gear, his boat, and all the other expensive toys he’d accumulated over the years.
It was a bold move, but it was also liberating. As I watched the items sell, one by one, I felt a weight lifting off my shoulders. I was taking back control of my life, and it felt amazing.
With the money I made from the sales, I decided to treat the kids and myself to a special vacation. We spent our days lounging by the pool, playing in the waves, and enjoying quality time together.
It was during this trip that I realized I deserved better. I deserved a partner who would support me, care for our children, and prioritize our family’s needs. Garrett had shown me time and time again that he wasn’t that man.
So, when Garrett finally called to confront me about selling his belongings, I was ready. I told him I wanted a divorce, and I meant it.
The conversation was difficult, but it was also freeing. I felt like I was finally standing up for myself, like I was taking back my power.
As I looked out at the ocean, watching the sun set over the waves, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but I was ready. I was ready to start a new chapter, one where I prioritized my own needs and desires.
I thought about the kids, about how they would adjust to this new reality. But as I looked at them, laughing and playing together, I knew they would be okay. They would thrive, just like I would.
As I drifted off to sleep that night, I felt a sense of hope that I hadn’t felt in years. I knew that tomorrow would bring new challenges, but I was ready. I was ready to face whatever came my way, head-on and with confidence.
