I saw my ex-wife yesterday. We had some things in storage at a mutual friend’s home. My ex and I get along okay, with some irritation but also some humor and not too much friction. We see each other only rarely, maybe twice a year. We talk a few more times than that just to say hi. I like to hear about her family.
We went out for tea and miso soup afterwards. She told me she wanted us not to be in contact for the next several years because she’s started seeing someone and wants to give that new relationship the space to grow. I’ve had the experience where I feel a new partner doesn’t understand my friendship with my ex, and doesn’t understand that the ex-relationship is nearly totally cold. I’ve had to break off contact for the same reason — to give the new relationship a chance. So, I completely understood where she was coming from.
Today, she called me to ask if I was okay and at ease with her request. I am. I also appreciated the call. This ex is the closest thing I have to family anywhere nearby and it’s nice to have that person, who knows me so well, to talk to from time to time and make me feel like there’s someone out there who cares about my feelings.
She didn’t have to call, of course. I was okay with her request. But it felt nice to get the call and have her ask if I was alright.
Evidence of friendly universe: an old friend who cares about how you feel.
Q