Notwithstanding this is the most impersonal way to divulge news of the utmost personal nature, I need to let you know what has been happening with me lately…
As you know, this past year has been one of incredible transformation for me. You have witnessed this transformation primarily in the way of physical changes, but—more significantly—I have grown and changed tremendously on the inside.
In Spring of 2009, I embarked on an intense journey of self-discovery, acceptance and truth, and as such, have made some life changing decisions to support my ideals, goals and vision for my future.
Last Fall, I decided to separate. While I choose not to discuss my reasons here, please know Andrew and I are doing well and are supporting one another with love and respect.
Andrew and I have been sharing the house and our time with the boys, with each of us taking turns at Hotel des Parents on our nights away. The four of us have worked through the initial sadness that comes with this kind of transition, and are now in a place where we can move forward with excitement toward our new adventures.
Yesterday was a milestone day. I signed the house over to Andrew and submitted a lease to rent a heritage apartment in one of Ottawa’s trendiest and most vibrant neighbourhoods. I will have the boys with me half the time, driving them to/from school and activities as required. I will also be at Andrew’s house for before and after care throughout the week, so he can work his regular hours. Being self-employed offers me the flexibility to dedicate this time to the boys, and help Andrew out where possible.
Andrew and I continue to be loving friends, co-parenting the boys with as much dedication to them as we have all along, helping one another when we require each other’s talents and skills, enjoying each other’s company at family gatherings, and making a point to unite as a family on a regular basis. We will continue to praise each other’s successes, and encourage new growth for each other, whether it be professional or personal.
As you know, this past year has been one of incredible transformation for me. You have witnessed this transformation primarily in the way of physical changes, but—more significantly—I have grown and changed tremendously on the inside.
In Spring of 2009, I embarked on an intense journey of self-discovery, acceptance and truth, and as such, have made some life changing decisions to support my ideals, goals and vision for my future.
Last Fall, I decided to separate. While I choose not to discuss my reasons here, please know Andrew and I are doing well and are supporting one another with love and respect.
Andrew and I have been sharing the house and our time with the boys, with each of us taking turns at Hotel des Parents on our nights away. The four of us have worked through the initial sadness that comes with this kind of transition, and are now in a place where we can move forward with excitement toward our new adventures.
Yesterday was a milestone day. I signed the house over to Andrew and submitted a lease to rent a heritage apartment in one of Ottawa’s trendiest and most vibrant neighbourhoods. I will have the boys with me half the time, driving them to/from school and activities as required. I will also be at Andrew’s house for before and after care throughout the week, so he can work his regular hours. Being self-employed offers me the flexibility to dedicate this time to the boys, and help Andrew out where possible.
Andrew and I continue to be loving friends, co-parenting the boys with as much dedication to them as we have all along, helping one another when we require each other’s talents and skills, enjoying each other’s company at family gatherings, and making a point to unite as a family on a regular basis. We will continue to praise each other’s successes, and encourage new growth for each other, whether it be professional or personal.
To quote a portion of my March 16th post, Change…
Growth is a necessary, but often painful, part of life.
Most often, when one begins to attract and develop their passion in life, the changes required to realize this will affect those closest and dearest to them. This is a very difficult time of turmoil and unrest, as each individual must now accept or reject a new identity. It is important to understand the person affecting the change is still the same person who loves them very much and wants what is best for all, which includes being honest with themselves while they begin to live their life.This does not mean abandonment, but very often means things will be much better for all concerned once things settle, if all choose this outcome. It is also necessary to realize no one is at fault. There is no one to blame, no bitterness exists, and a deep rooted love remains. It should also be pointed out that very often change has been in the works for quite some time, with very little evidence, and that change is the individual’s choice—and can only be their choice—not the fault of another.
And from February 10th…
Two of the most difficult tasks we will ever perform in our life are…
…to live our purpose without regret, not trying to please everyone around us.
…to allow another to live their purpose without judgment, especially those close to our heart.
I once wrote in my imaginary blog that love is a journey and you can never anticipate what's next or how on life's journey you will come to know truth you never thought possible. Best wishes JoeGirl
ReplyDeleteSo eloquently put, Joe! I'm so happy for you and wish you all the best as you embark on this new path. It sounds like you have a very level head about all this, and I'm sure you already know that that will take you far!
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