I’m happy to be happy FOR you, and I empathize with your situation at the same time. Sometimes getting started down a new path is like a rocket taking off from the earth. It’s amazingly difficult at first, but once you’re in orbit, it’s smooth sailing! :)

As far as avoiding people who don’t have the same understanding as you, I’m with you on that. I rarely inform my friends and family of major events in my life until after the “hoopla” has died down.

People asking “What are you going to do?”, “How do you feel?”, “How does this affect your plans for {whatever}?” - they all mean well. However, someone’s path is their path alone, and sometimes it is best to avoid the spotlight until the show is over. ;)

As big of a fan as I am of radical, “in your face” type of lifestyle changes, I will certainly concede that whether someone opts for the radical route, or the sustained route, consistency is key for both of those individuals.

Big props to you for continuing to emphasize the importance of that!

That’s exactly it - when people say they’re sorry, I just say there’s nothing to be sorry about. It’s the right choice, the right path. Separating is not a bad thing - which doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt and there’s no heart ache…

Just an understanding and acceptance of what is.

So THANK YOU for being happy! That’s what I want to hear.

I’ve actually avoided well-meaning friends over this period because their perception of my experience is so different from what I’m actually going through…

I have both advised people on, as well as lived the act of giving up or changing past relationships because the people involved were heading in different directions.

My first (ancient) instinct when I read your comment was to say “I’m sorry about your marriage”. However, if someone is successfully walking their path, that is nothing to be sorry about, even if it meant making some hard choices in order to get to that point.

My thoughts are with you as well as anyone else who is dealing with the “hard” part of moving forward in life, but I also know that the road will lead where you truly want it to lead. And for that, I am happy. :)

p.s. - As far as challenges, I think you just hurdled one!!