How My Wife and I Broke Up
Yes, we agreed it was for the best. We decided calmly, both keeping our composure. We even managed to laugh about it. We are civilised people, after all.
My wife packed her things. She also took our little dog with her. She left.
Just for three daysto her younger sisters place.
The two of them fancied a holiday together. You know, have a lazy time, gossiping, watching films, eating chocolate in bed, giggling over photos on Instagram, and fussing over the little dog.
As for me? Well, not much, to be honest. I didnt dash out for a drink or summon any mates over for a night at the pub. Whats the point?
I did, however, blast some music in the morning. Oh, and I cleaned the cooker and the fridgemy only acts of wildness.
Yesterday, my wife returned, dog in tow. In the evening. We had our hugs and kisses, as youd expect. This time, I even suggested taking the dog for a walk togetherusually she nips out with the dog, and only for a short while. We bundled the dog up in a warm jumper and set off on a little expedition around our estate. We strolled along, side by side, just talking about everything under the sun. The dog managed to lose her winter boot, and we didnt even notice at the time.
Normally, wed settle in for a film or a book in the evening, but not last night. We turned in early instead.
You know, Im convinced that little separations do wonders for a marriage. In fact, Id say theyre necessaryat least once every six months. No arguments, no dramatic Im off to my mothers! scenes. I mean proper, healthy breaks. Arrange itsomeone spends a few days away, maybe with a sister, maybe with a friend in the countryside, different options.
A break from each other is important and good, even in the happiest marriages. Every story needs a twist, after all. Domestic bliss is all well and good, but you have to shake things up a bitit keeps things interesting.
And for a man, being alone now and then is essential. Not to go feral or start pouring whisky at breakfastjust to be alone. Maybe its important for women too, though Im not the expert there. I get the feeling women are much more socially inclined, more dependent on connection. But, as I say, Im no specialist.
For men, solitude, even for a short spell, is just a need. Why do husbands really go off fishing? Is it about the fish? Of course not. They just need a day or two to themselves, sitting by the water, listening to the birdsalmost meditative, really.
But the best bit is coming back together. Theres joy in that, a kind of tenderness and passion. Its all for that moment. Hello, my love!
And then turning in earlytogether. As soon as possible.
Its taught me that our happiness isnt just about always being together, but in giving each other space, too. And thats something Ill hold on to.
