I remember

I remember when my parents split up, I don’t recall if the divorce was final or if still in the works when this incident occurred.  It was Christmas and we had just finished up with our visit with my dad.  Back then I don’t think any of the kids looked forward to visits with dad, he was very up and down as a result of the split which was due to infidelity, according to my mom.  There were times when he was just so sad it was unbearable to be around him.  As a 12 or 13 year old it was tough to fully understand the depth of feeling/hurt involved when two people end a long relationship.

So anyway we had just gotten in my mom’s car.  My dad signaled for us to wait.  He suddenly grabbed some additional presents from his car and handed them to us through the window.  When asked, he said they were from the woman he was seeing, she evidently bought us presents.  Without a moment’s hesitation my mom grabbed the wrapped gifts and threw them in the street. As she sped away I recall looking back at my dad picking up the discarded presents from the ground.  That moment in time and the emotion surrounding it has been burned into my mind ever since, obviously.

As an adult I have had opportunities to deal with both sides of this scenario which have given me a greater understanding of the dynamics involved in failed relationships. Unfortunately that experience still does not dull the edge when you get cut upon repeatedly. Only the passing of time and transitioning to the next chapter in life can do that.