I”m a 35-year-old woman, married to my 45-year-old husband for more than seven years, and together we share four wonderful children. This week, on the occasion of his birthday, I revealed to him through a pregnancy test that we were expecting our fifth child, anticipating joy at the news. However, his reaction was unexpectedly severe; he was overwhelmed, insisting it was impossible since we had been cautious. This response puzzled me, especially considering he had always expressed a desire for a large family during our dating years. Despite my efforts to soothe him, his anxiety was palpable.
Our visit to the gynecologist further escalated the situation. The confirmation of a 10-week pregnancy with twins left my husband distraught, repeatedly voicing his refusal to accept this new reality. His reaction in the doctor’s office was a stark revelation of his fears about managing a family of six at his age. His remarks about regretting marriage and yearning for a life reset deeply hurt me. In response, I reminded him of our shared responsibility in creating our family.
The following morning was heartbreaking. Our children’s pleas and tears couldn’t deter him; he had already decided to leave. Witnessing our three-year-old clinging to his father’s luggage was a moment of clarity for me about the gravity of our situation. It was then I recognized the enormity of the mistake in marrying him. Despite the challenges of pregnancy, I am reassured by my stable job, our nanny’s support, and a network of family and friends ready to stand by us.
So, to Jerry, my soon-to-be ex-husband, I say this with resolve: goodbye. We’ll move forward without you.
