I think it better I go solo to the party and enjoy myself as a confident and principled man who can enjoy my own company and have a great time with colleagues.
I agree.
I am glad you recognized those fleeting “larger than they really are” feelings.
Confident and principled. That’s how I think of you after these years of us talking.
D
Feelings are fleeting. Be better, not bitter. Love the person, forgive the sin.
Saturday morning to myself. Hints of spring today but could be more winter to come. Overcast and mild temperatures. Quiet. Almost mowed my lawn a couple weeks ago before snow and ice cover.
Had a great time away last weekend with youngest S, D and D’s fiancé. We had some wedding planning conversations and a ton of fun with recreation, laughter, singing, games and good food.
I have been detaching more this year - really it’s been about a year - and I continue to GAL.
This week, after not answering several texts that didn’t need a response, I agreed to have a phone conversation with W. She had asked if we could talk on the phone. I updated her on some aspects of S’s health and care, being open and honest. She became upset that I had not told her one of the details about his health earlier and said, “you can’t push me out of our family.” … I didn’t take that bait.
Outcome of our conversation: we have decided to resume weekly phone conversations about S and to use a shared calendar about his appointments. I am reminded that she had told me that only talking to her about S was ridiculous and that whoever had advised me to do that was crazy. Honestly, I don’t want to talk to her at all. However I want to be responsible and to communicate effectively about what is important. I have listened to sage board members here and I’ve stopped looking for reasons to stay in constant contact with her. Suppose that was a 180.
The call was uncomfortable but I immediately put it on the back burner and haven’t given it conscious thought til now. It was there with some things to process and this weekend presents an opportunity to do some of that with this good cup of coffee.
Tonight, I party with my work colleagues. I look and feel great. I’m happy and healthy and am really looking forward to the planned event. I’m glad I don’t have a date. That would just really not fit with where I am at.
This week, after not answering several texts that didn’t need a response, I agreed to have a phone conversation with W. She had asked if we could talk on the phone. I updated her on some aspects of S’s health and care, being open and honest. She became upset that I had not told her one of the details about his health earlier and said, “you can’t push me out of our family.” … I didn’t take that bait.
I'm glad you didn't take the bait AND i agree that she might have a reason for being upset about your son's health seeing that he has special needs.
Originally Posted by Rockon
Outcome of our conversation: we have decided to resume weekly phone conversations about S and to use a shared calendar about his appointments. I am reminded that she had told me that only talking to her about S was ridiculous and that whoever had advised me to do that was crazy. Honestly, I don’t want to talk to her at all. However I want to be responsible and to communicate effectively about what is important. I have listened to sage board members here and I’ve stopped looking for reasons to stay in constant contact with her. Suppose that was a 180.
I'm really glad you make this decision for YOU. It doesn't matter how your wife responds or participates in the care... you can go to bed peacefully knowing that you did not allow your anger, hurt or "want to not engage" dictate your actions. You will not be the reason why your wife doesn't show up for your son.
This was a high road choice. One that will have to be made many times. Also one that will not cause no regrets.
Kudos Rock.
M(f): 40 D'ed: 8/12
Show empathy when there's pain. Show grace when warranted. Kindness in the midst of anger. Faith in the face of fear.
Thank you V. I logged back on here after a good breakfast with S reflecting there was quite a bit more to the phone conversation - and yes I rest easy with my responses and words.
