Can we adopt this mindset?
I’ve been stuck on this thought for weeks:
Why does our society view divorce as a failure instead of a natural part of life's journey?
Glennon Doyle says it best: "When you do the work to not put the shame on divorce, when you don’t add that layer of shame and negativity, you can have dignity, you can have strength, and you can have compassion. If we don’t put this red stamp on it like it’s a bad thing, it would just make the whole process so much more life-giving to both people, to the children, to everybody."
Is it possible for us to adopt this mindset?
Divorce is hard — no one denies that.
But by removing the stigma, we open the door to new possibilities.
We allow dignity to replace embarrassment. We find strength where there once was weakness. And most importantly, we nurture compassion for one another.
Try to remember the last time you felt really shi**y about yourself. It could be about your body, or your job, or a conflict or as simple as a big zit on your face (gross but true). It can bring down your whole day, right? You are less patient. More irritable. Quick to anger.
Shame does nothing but bring out the worst in us.
Now, consider the impact that shame can have on the already difficult process of divorce.
If we were able to transform that shame into acceptance, consider the impact on families:
Parents could part ways with mutual respect, setting a positive example for their children.
Children could witness a healthier, more supportive environment rather than conflict and resentment.
Both partners could transition into the next chapter of their lives with hope instead of regret.
This shift in mindset could redefine millions of lives. Divorce wouldn't be a scarlet letter. It would be recognized as a hard, yet natural life change.
That’s the narrative I am striving for. Let's change our cultural perspective to one where the divorce process uplifts, not tears down. Because when we do, everyone wins.