Early in the morning, a neighbour rang me up and asked,
“Have you heard what your cousin’s done?”
“No, what’s happened?”
“Looks like she’s about to file for divorce at 54, after being married for 30 years.”
Hearing that, I was totally gobsmacked. How could this be? They always seemed like a normal family. Her husband doesn’t drink, he’s retired now and nine years older than her. They have three grown-up children, all with their own homes, and already five grandchildren. And suddenly, shes decided she wants out.
Thinking someone must have got their wires crossed, I rang my cousin straightaway and suggested we meet up. We agreed to catch up at the park, so we could chat without any fuss. And heres what she told me…
I havent got any strength left. Ive spent my whole life like a hamster on a wheel. My husband worked and so did I, but when the day was done, hed grab a spot on the settee and watch TV or head to the pub for a pint with his mates. Meanwhile, I started my second shift at home. I’m sure plenty of women know exactly what I mean.
You finish your job, get home, and then it begins: washing clothes, making tea, sorting something out for tomorrow, because the kids will want a bite after school. Then you clean up, do the dishes, run the hoover round since your husbands tired and the kids are busywith homework and club activities. And so much more, its endless, as any housewife can tell you.
I kept hoping that, as the kids grew up, things would get easier. I was mistaken. The children moved out, my husband retired, and I kept working.
Now, my dear husband spends his days at home or fishing, but he never does anything around the house. Every time, he just waits for me to get back and expects everything to be sorted.
The final straw came when I caught a nasty cold. He came home from fishing, didnt ask how I was or if I needed anything, but went straight to the fridge and started shouting that there was nothing to eatthat I could at least have boiled some potatoes, since it’s not exactly difficult.
I told him, if it’s not hard, he could fix it himself. He shot back,
Whats the point of a wife if I have to cook my own meals?
Hearing that, I said Ive had enough, that were divorcing. Well split the house and live separately. At least Ill make a life for myself.
The children weren’t happy about my decision. They told me I was leaving him all alone, and hell never copehe wont be able to manage and hell just fade away.
But honestly, I dont care anymore. He brought this on himself. If he doesnt value what he has, let him see what it really means.
Thats how it is. Maybe things will settle down, but my cousin is resolute.
Ive got my doubts, as being on your own in old age isnt easy.
What do you think?
