The "D-word"

My name is Angel, and I'm divorced.

It took a while for me to come to terms with saying that. I would avoid certain areas of town or places so I wouldn't run into anyone from my "old life" and have to answer the dreaded questions.

"How's X?" And then when I had to say "Oh, we're not together anymore," the shock and disbelief. "What??" "Really??" "What happened?"

I felt like there was big red D on my chest. It was like I was a part of club that no one wants to join. I was grieving. Grieving over the loss of hopes and dreams. Grieving over the loss of a life and future that I thought I would have. Grieving over the promises and commitments that were lost.

BUT... the awesome thing is that something beautiful emerged from going through something so terrible. Don't get me wrong. I'm in no way glorifying divorce. I'm simply giving hope to those of you who have been divorced or are currently in the process of a divorce. There is light at the end of the tunnel.

I've learned so much through this process. I've learned more about myself and who I am as well as things I need to work on. I've learned that the purpose for my life has not changed or been stopped. I've learned that working on myself and allowing my heart to heal has expanded my capacity to love others more.

I'm in a wonderful place in life! Not of my own strength, but because of the power of God at work in me. I'm excited about my future and the purpose I know is in me.

If you're currently going through a divorce or still struggling from a past divorce, I hope you find encouragement in this. Seek help from a counselor if you need to talk with someone who can help you through the process. Join a support group (Check out www.divorcecare.org for a group near you). Surround yourself with friends and loved ones who support you.

You don't have to wear the "D" on your chest like a life sentence. Don't let it define you or become your identity. Remember, you still have a purpose, and you are valuable.