I was blessed with two amazing parents, and when that didn’t work out I was graced with two extra parents I didn’t even deserve. My mom and my dad didn’t stay together and “stick it out” for the kids, and as ugly as divorce may be I’m SO happy they didn’t. My parents made a choice to not make me grow up watching a loveless marriage, and they gave themselves the opportunity to find their own happiness and for that I respect them. I also can’t thank them enough because they both introduced me to people I can’t imagine my life without. in all reality I’ve had the chance to build unique relationships with all of my parents.

Everyone makes divorce out to be this terrible thing, an irreplaceable bond broken, and a split home that isn’t replaceable, but it isn’t anything close to that.

Divorce to me is 4x’s the love, influence and opportunity. Since my parents introduced me to new people I was able to expand so much of my character beyond what genetics had already given me. Maybe you aren’t to the 4x’s stage yet, but I was always amazed at how my parents found new ways to love me when they became individuals, and beyond that.

With out the influence of my step parents I probably never would have continued onto higher education after high school. I wouldn’t have a stubborn side, or a feisty attitude because even though biologically I’m not their child they’ve molded me unintentionally.

We live in a society where divorce is constantly shunned, and I don’t want you to think that I’m encouraging divorce by any means, because that isn’t the purpose of this article. I still think marriage should be 100% from both sides and a devotion you make in your life. I just think it’s time for people to understand that divorce is common, and sometimes regardless of the 100% put forward it isn’t enough. Yet, we shun divorcees in our society telling everyone that they didn’t try, or they’re selfish, or they should have stuck it out for the kids. We spend this time judging people instead of supporting them. I think as humans if we all took more time to be more encouraging it would make the worlds difference.

As a child who was co-parented and raised in two very different homes I think I speak for many when I say divorce isn’t all ugly. I turned out better than I would have imagined because I had 4x’s the parent power behind me. Encouraging me, pushing me forward, and supporting me to reach my potential, and for that I owe my parents everything.

So instead of using divorce to play the victim card, I think being a child of a split home is such an honor. I’m so lucky God chose this path for me, and I thank Him for everyday for giving me such amazing people to guide me through this life.

Until next week,

Me