Early one morning, my neighbour rang me and asked, Have you heard what your cousin has done?
No, what happened? I replied.
Apparently, shes going to file for divorce at 54, after thirty years of marriage.
That bit of news left me absolutely dumbfounded. They always seemed like such a normal family. Her husband doesnt drink and is now retired; hes nine years older than her. They have three grown-up children who all live on their own, and five grandchildren. Out of the blue, shes decided she wants a divorce.
I wondered if thered been some mix-up, so I called my cousin straight away and suggested we meet in the park for a proper chat. As we sat together, this is what she told me…
I just cant take it anymore. I feel like a hamster on a wheel. My husband worked, and so did I, but after a day at work, hed sprawl out on the sofa and watch telly or relax, maybe went for a pint with his mates. Meanwhile, I started my second shift in the house. Im sure plenty of women know exactly what I mean.
You come home from work and straight away youre sorting the laundry, making dinner, getting something ready for tomorrow so the kids have food after school. Then its cleaning up, washing the dishes, vacuumingbecause the husband is tired and the kids are busy with homework and after-school clubs. Theres always more, as any housewife will tell you.
I thought things would ease up as the children grew older, but I was wrong. The kids moved out, my husband retired, but I carry on working.
And now, with my husband around all the time or off fishing, he never lifts a finger in the house. Each time I come home, he expects me to do everything by myself.
The final straw came when I caught a cold. When my husband returned from fishing, he didnt even ask how I was feeling or if I needed anything; he just opened the fridge and started shouting about there being nothing to eat, complaining I could have at least boiled some potatoes since its not difficult.
I told him, if it’s so simple, he could do it himself. He replied, Why do I need a wife if Im going to cook for myself?
At that moment, I told him Id had enough. Well split the house and live separately. For once, Ill live a bit for myself.
The kids werent happy with my decision. They said Id leave him alone and helpless, he doesnt know how to manage and might not cope.
But honestly, I dont care anymore. He did this to himself. If he wont appreciate what he has, now hell see what lifes really like.
Thats how it is. Maybe things will settle down one day, but my cousin is determined.
I do have doubts, though. Being alone in old age isnt ideal.
What do you think?
Its a reminder that respect and appreciation are the foundation of any relationship; without them, even the strongest bonds can fracture. In life, its important never to take those closest to us for granted.
