A: It was very upsetting to know that my parents were divorcing because I really wanted the 'perfect family'. I didn't understand why they couldn't stay together and make it work.
I also found it hard because all my friends’ parents were still together. I didn't have any friends who really understood what I was going through and what I was feeling.
I was very confused and, at the time, I didn't understand how people could just fall out of love and give up. I wanted to do something to fix it and at first I thought I could, but I didn't know how.
I had all these emotions and thoughts swirling through my mind. I couldn't think. I had a hard time concentrating at school. I can remember one day in grade 6 getting angry with my teacher. I really wasn't mad at her, I was upset at what was happening. I felt like I couldn't control my emotions. It was a rollercoaster that I didn't want to ride. From moment to moment different feelings and thoughts showed up.
‘So I sit here another day watching the world pass me by. And as a tear rolls down my cheek I can no longer see the sun in this sky.’
– lyrics from my song ‘All You See in Me’
Honestly, the greatest tool that I used and would suggest is journaling. Writing down the tornado of emotions and events I was experiencing helped me release bottled up feelings and thoughts. It seems so simple yet it was the tool that helped me the most on the painful journey of divorce.
Realizing that it wasn't my fault my parents were getting a divorce and that I couldn't fix it, was very important.
Until next time,
This has been 'my voice' but I respect this is your life, this is 'your choice'
Keep reaching out until someone listens.
