Divorce does not always get the respect it deserves. It is a major life decision, which means that it can be emotional, stressful and confusing. The divorce process is not easy for everyone. That is true, but many people look back on the experience and realize it was the best decision they could have made.
Going through a divorce can act as a wake-up call, help people rediscover who they are and even help them learn a few new things. We can use the lyrics to Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger,” to sum up the benefits pretty well.
Let us just take a look at the lines in the chorus:
- “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” Okay, kill is an extreme word, but difficult experiences do make us stronger. Divorce forces people to deal with tough decisions, but they make them. They learn that they have more ingenuity than they thought and can become better problem solvers.
- “Stand a little taller” Divorce can make people more confident and independent. Children can benefit from a good role model when they see their parents as people who take control of their future.
- “Doesn’t mean I’m lonely when I’m alone” Divorce is the end of a marriage, but some people realize how lonely they were with someone. Divorce can give clarity to their past relationship and to their needs for future ones. It can also make people more empathetic to others in a similar situation.
- “What doesn’t kill you makes a fighter” Even if spouses divorce amicably, they still learn how to stand up and advocate for their and their children’s best interests. It can help people gain perspective and make continuing changes in their lives.
- “Footsteps even lighter” Divorce can provide a type of cathartic release, a way to change someone’s life for the better.
- “Doesn’t mean I’m over cause you’re gone” When the divorce is eventually finalized, signing that last paper can really feel like everything bad was put in the past. It is a fresh start.
A song is a fun way to describe general feelings and emotions, but it cannot provide legal advice. The only way to get that advice is to talk to an attorney about your individual situation, because the divorce process is different for everyone.
Source: The Huffington Post, “10 Ways Divorce Can Change Your Life For The Better,” Lisa Arends, April 6, 2015
