Thank you for sharing your story. I married my college sweetheart. We married shortly after graduation. We moved to Houston, Tx after graduation. After 5 years in the marriage we divorced. I have been divorced for over 26 years. I never wanted to get married again. I just wanted to raise my son and enjoy my life. Well, fast forward, my son has graduated from college, and I am an empty nester. I have dated over the years and have really enjoyed my life. But now I find myself going through a change in my life. Life has gotten "quiet" Thanks for giving me the insight to work on my mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Thanks for being transparent. I am looking forward to more content.
I just happened to stumble on your channel today. Funny how many things we have in common. My first name is Renee. I married a man who had been married before, had three children and a veteran. I got married at 25 not too long out of college. My husband was 33. I separated from him when I was 58. I was separated for 11 years and have recently divorced this year. Many of my friends were surprised when I left my home at 58. It wasn’t easy especially not having any family here, but I was financially in good shape. I did not date during my separation and find it hard to start dating at 69. Not because I don’t want to, but because there are slim pickings of men at that age. I still try to live my life to my fullest.
Thank you for this message! As someone who has recently filed for divorce, I, too, am looking forward to learning myself all over again. I was married for 32 years but at the 16 year mark, probably before, I knew it was over, but at the time, I had two young sons and thought it was the right thing to stay so that they could grow up with their dad in the house. Boy, o boy, was I wrong!! I beat myself up for staying, but I have since forgiven myself, as well as apologizing to my sons. I'm looking forward to my healing journey so that I can begin living all over again. Thank you for your inspiring story. Keep the inspiration coming. May you maintain your peace!!
Divorced after 7 months of marriage. It’s been one year since divorcing and you have no clue how much I needed this. I married a marine and it didn’t work but it was not a loss it was a lesson.
Thank you for sharing your story. I can absolutely relate to many of the details you shared. One thing that really struck me was that I too had a close friend who was willing to listen to the nitty gritty details of what I was facing during my divorce and even wanted to constantly talk about what terrible things were happening to me and my children but that same friend backed away when my focus shifted to healing, showing up as my authentic self, and embracing self-compassion. Wow, I would have never imagined this would have happened but so thankful it did because it exposes the true nature of people we invite into our lives. I have hope that the days are growing brighter each day for those of us who are showing up and doing the work necessary to heal.
The 'exposing' is painful but necessary for you to have the right people in your life. Not to say that anything was wrong with those that were in my life...they just weren't equipped to continue to journey because my needs shifted. I'm proud of you!!! ❤️
Just wanted to say thank you for creating this platform. I was married 24 years before divorcing what I thought would be my forever. Divorce was my rebirth/rediscovering who I am…! I am grateful to all that was lost and all that I have gained. Sending an abundance of healing and love to any other women going through the same 🥰
Whoa!! Thanks for sharing!! I needed to hear this..I can relate..growing up I didn’t have girlfriend relationships, so I was comfortable (or so I thought) being a loner/independent. I divorced in 2009 and my ex and I do not communicate, and he is a detached parent. We have a 17 y/o that I hope and pray that she is able to receive all the love that is given from those that are present in her life. I’ve learned to parent different from my upbringing and I have put in so much work to be a better, healed, and loving mom, sister, and friend! ❤
Thanks for sharing and creating this platform. As I was navigating my divorce I searched and couldn’t find a community that I could relate to. I follow you on TT and was happy to see that you started a YT channel with this message. Your voice is needed so thank you for sharing it.
Thank you for the TT and YT love! ❤️🙏🏽 I couldn't talk about my divorce for years - I didn't know how. All I knew was it was challenging and I felt like no one wanted "to hear it", so I felt alone. I'm so glad you are finding this platform helpful. How are you coping? 🥲
@@melonierenee I was delulu in thinking I wouldn’t need to grieve the way that I ultimately did. I didn’t factor all of which our 23 year union created and how I would feel when it was changed or gone. I had to pay the piper and deal with it. I couldn’t control and plan my way around it. God had to stop me so I had to sit still and therapy was key😊.
Right when you are healing no one is around especially if it’s an inconvenience to them. But you are meant to heal alone you have got to hear yourself, see yourself, And hear God. ❤❤❤healed Parenting Hits Different.
Thank you for sharing. This was definitely needed. I’m not divorced but I can see it coming. I already saw it about 7 years ago and it’s only gotten progressively worse. He doesn’t want me but wants our children to stay in the home with him and isn’t budging so I’m so nervous about what to do. Thank you for showing us there is light and the end of the tunnel.
This sounds like a really unfortunate situation. My question: do you think it's healthy for the kids? Do they 'see' it? You have questions to ask yourself. I hope you have a really great therapist...you're going to need professional support...your decisions are going to be challenging, but you've got this! 🙏🏽💕
@@melonierenee Thank you so much 🙏🏽. I know it’s not an ideal situation to be in but here I am. Our kids are 11 and 2 so I’m not sure if my oldest sees it. We don’t have any conversations around them but I know my 11 year old is very observant. I do have an amazing therapist and have been seeing her for over 3 years. I had to because I was loosing my mind. We are both veterans and been together our entire career and now retired. It’s rough at times.
Very relatable. Glad you discovered your voice. I had to do the same. I believe in therapy and the desire to heal. It's on-going. Congratulations on putting your desires first. Peace is priceless. Boundaries set. Loving me. Thanks for sharing. Followed you from TikTok.
I love your openness and gentle manner in which you share. I cried when you said that you are now comfortable in your skin and your approach to dating. I sincerely thank you for this platform.
Thank you SO much! I appreciate the compliments. It's been a journey and I'm finally excited to see where it takes me. Thank you again for being here. ❤️🙏🏾
Love this. Although I am not going through a divorce, I have friends close to me who are. My sister went through one and she does not think she needs any help, but she is mentally spiraling out of control. She listnes to what I have to say and says she will get therapy, but turns around and says she is ok. I have recently started seeing a therapist, for some past issues, as well as dealing with the changes menopause has thrown my way. New subscriber, I love your message. Thanks for sharing. ❤
Hi i just found your page on here because i follow your Tiktok/ IG already but i appreciate your content its very informative and i enjoy the ootd looks😊 too yes keep up great work your doing its encouraging. Thank you
Thank you so very much. My name is Shirley I 💯 resonate with your divorce story. I will follow and continue to watch and comment. I so need a mature tribe to vibe with. I’m looking forward to more content.
Melonie thank you so much for your transparency. This video spoke volumes to me. I’m in the process of living my life as an emotionally healthy woman and it’s amazing yet at times still a bit overwhelming when you’re so used to pleasing everyone except yourself. Again thank you and I look forward to more content from you ❤
Oh!!! We have lots in common then...the people pleasing is real! Insecurity, low self-esteem, aboandonment...it was rooted deep in me. Still working on it but much better than where I was. Hopefully you are too! ❤️
@@melonierenee I’m definitely better and excited about this beautiful life I’m building for myself with Jesus as my foundation there’s nothing I can’t accomplish 💕
Wow Melanie, I completely resonated with your story as it mirrors my own experience in so many ways. After ending a long term relationship and moving to a new state, I feel like a completely different person. Yes, the transition was difficult but at this stage in life I am at peace and living my best life. Just enjoying me time, developing new girlfriend relationships and dating. Thank you soooo much for sharing your journey! ❤❤
It takes amazing courage and strength to share your story. Thank you! So many things resonated with me as well. You are truly amazing. Love and Blessings 🥰❤️❤️❤
I'm grateful I found your IG page and now your RUclips channel. There are many points you mentioned that resonated with me. Please continue to create more videos.
Your video is right on time. I believe the algorithm was reading my mind😂. Plz keep this going. I have to file for a DV sooner than later but want to be prepared and any information will help❤
First, divorce is never easy, regardless of the reason, so sending hugs. I'm happy to share anything I can to help others not go through what I did. It was challenging, embarrassing, and very hurtful. But at the end of the day...take care of you first. ❤
So brave to choose you under circumstances that many of us would stay. When you have kids and security, it is a hard call to make, worried about disrupting everything for everyone. Hopefully, you will share more about your divorce process and the knowledge you wish you had then, for those of us who need it.
Would love to hear more about the cause of the breakdown of your marriage and details of the divorce itself (specific things that you felt were negative not just that you didn’t get anything)
I figured someone would ask. I don't share that part only because I have children with him. Sharing too much harms them. I'll allow you to deduce and infer. 😉
Thank you for being so open and transparent with your story. How long did it take for your divorce to be finalized? What were the biggest hurdles? What lessons did you learn during the process? Thank you.
Thank you for making this video. Its so needed. I would love to hear how you navigated the court system as a black woman with children. I’m sure so many black women can benefit from advice and insite on what they may be up against when contemplating divorce in the US.
This was good. Crazy how this video just popped up on my timeline. I notice many similarities. I'm a Pk also who was taught no boys, they only want to get it your panties and nothing else about relationships, so when i finally left my parents home i ended up with the guy thay didn't pressure me for sex because thats all i knew to look for, so my list was shorter🤣. I get it. Definitely teaching my kids more and listening to them more . I applaud you for your transparency. I hope to get to that space of healing with God's help sooner than later.
Oh my goodness…I related to your story so much. I walked away after 20 yrs with nothing cause I just wanted peace.. my life is radically different and restored but ladies get an advocate!!! And go to therapy!!
Thank you for sharing your story. I married my college sweetheart. We married shortly after graduation. We moved to Houston, Tx after graduation. After 5 years in the marriage we divorced. I have been divorced for over 26 years. I never wanted to get married again. I just wanted to raise my son and enjoy my life. Well, fast forward, my son has graduated from college, and I am an empty nester. I have dated over the years and have really enjoyed my life. But now I find myself going through a change in my life. Life has gotten "quiet" Thanks for giving me the insight to work on my mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Thanks for being transparent. I am looking forward to more content.
I absolutely love the fact that you walked your own path. It’s never necessary to marry if it’s not in your heart. Thank you for sharing this. ♥️
I just happened to stumble on your channel today. Funny how many things we have in common. My first name is Renee. I married a man who had been married before, had three children and a veteran. I got married at 25 not too long out of college. My husband was 33. I separated from him when I was 58. I was separated for 11 years and have recently divorced this year. Many of my friends were surprised when I left my home at 58. It wasn’t easy especially not having any family here, but I was financially in good shape. I did not date during my separation and find it hard to start dating at 69. Not because I don’t want to, but because there are slim pickings of men at that age. I still try to live my life to my fullest.
Wow…thank you for sharing your story. It takes bravery to choose yourself. Was it challenging that it took so long to divorce?
Thank you for this message! As someone who has recently filed for divorce, I, too, am looking forward to learning myself all over again. I was married for 32 years but at the 16 year mark, probably before, I knew it was over, but at the time, I had two young sons and thought it was the right thing to stay so that they could grow up with their dad in the house. Boy, o boy, was I wrong!! I beat myself up for staying, but I have since forgiven myself, as well as apologizing to my sons. I'm looking forward to my healing journey so that I can begin living all over again. Thank you for your inspiring story. Keep the inspiration coming. May you maintain your peace!!
I'm so glad you forgave yourself. We (moms) are so hard on ourselves when kids are involved. Just remember, choosing you IS choosing them. ❤️
Divorced after 7 months of marriage. It’s been one year since divorcing and you have no clue how much I needed this. I married a marine and it didn’t work but it was not a loss it was a lesson.
@@cosmosprincess20 I’m so glad you were able to see clearly early. ♥️
Thank you for sharing your story. I can absolutely relate to many of the details you shared. One thing that really struck me was that I too had a close friend who was willing to listen to the nitty gritty details of what I was facing during my divorce and even wanted to constantly talk about what terrible things were happening to me and my children but that same friend backed away when my focus shifted to healing, showing up as my authentic self, and embracing self-compassion. Wow, I would have never imagined this would have happened but so thankful it did because it exposes the true nature of people we invite into our lives. I have hope that the days are growing brighter each day for those of us who are showing up and doing the work necessary to heal.
The 'exposing' is painful but necessary for you to have the right people in your life. Not to say that anything was wrong with those that were in my life...they just weren't equipped to continue to journey because my needs shifted. I'm proud of you!!! ❤️
Just wanted to say thank you for creating this platform. I was married 24 years before divorcing what I thought would be my forever. Divorce was my rebirth/rediscovering who I am…! I am grateful to all that was lost and all that I have gained. Sending an abundance of healing and love to any other women going through the same 🥰
I love this post and your heart - thank you. ❤️
Whoa!! Thanks for sharing!! I needed to hear this..I can relate..growing up I didn’t have girlfriend relationships, so I was comfortable (or so I thought) being a loner/independent. I divorced in 2009 and my ex and I do not communicate, and he is a detached parent. We have a 17 y/o that I hope and pray that she is able to receive all the love that is given from those that are present in her life. I’ve learned to parent different from my upbringing and I have put in so much work to be a better, healed, and loving mom, sister, and friend! ❤
Very brave and honest. I have a divorce story but now I am loving the woman I have become and continuing to become. Life is good.
Thank you and I agree - life is GREAT!!! 🥰
Thanks for sharing and creating this platform. As I was navigating my divorce I searched and couldn’t find a community that I could relate to. I follow you on TT and was happy to see that you started a YT channel with this message. Your voice is needed so thank you for sharing it.
Thank you for the TT and YT love! ❤️🙏🏽 I couldn't talk about my divorce for years - I didn't know how. All I knew was it was challenging and I felt like no one wanted "to hear it", so I felt alone. I'm so glad you are finding this platform helpful. How are you coping? 🥲
@@melonierenee I was delulu in thinking I wouldn’t need to grieve the way that I ultimately did. I didn’t factor all of which our 23 year union created and how I would feel when it was changed or gone. I had to pay the piper and deal with it. I couldn’t control and plan my way around it. God had to stop me so I had to sit still and therapy was key😊.
Self awareness caused me a lot of people after my divorce. Thanks for therapy. ❤
Right when you are healing no one is around especially if it’s an inconvenience to them. But you are meant to heal alone you have got to hear yourself, see yourself, And hear God. ❤❤❤healed Parenting Hits Different.
Love this comment...so true!
Thank you for sharing. This was definitely needed. I’m not divorced but I can see it coming. I already saw it about 7 years ago and it’s only gotten progressively worse. He doesn’t want me but wants our children to stay in the home with him and isn’t budging so I’m so nervous about what to do. Thank you for showing us there is light and the end of the tunnel.
This sounds like a really unfortunate situation. My question: do you think it's healthy for the kids? Do they 'see' it? You have questions to ask yourself. I hope you have a really great therapist...you're going to need professional support...your decisions are going to be challenging, but you've got this! 🙏🏽💕
@@melonierenee Thank you so much 🙏🏽. I know it’s not an ideal situation to be in but here I am. Our kids are 11 and 2 so I’m not sure if my oldest sees it. We don’t have any conversations around them but I know my 11 year old is very observant. I do have an amazing therapist and have been seeing her for over 3 years. I had to because I was loosing my mind. We are both veterans and been together our entire career and now retired. It’s rough at times.
Very relatable. Glad you discovered your voice. I had to do the same. I believe in therapy and the desire to heal. It's on-going.
Congratulations on putting your desires first. Peace is priceless.
Boundaries set. Loving me. Thanks for sharing. Followed you from TikTok.
So true…♥️
Thank you TikTok fam…🥰🥰🥰
@@melonierenee You're very welcome
I love your openness and gentle manner in which you share. I cried when you said that you are now comfortable in your skin and your approach to dating. I sincerely thank you for this platform.
Thank you SO much! I appreciate the compliments. It's been a journey and I'm finally excited to see where it takes me. Thank you again for being here. ❤️🙏🏾
Love this. Although I am not going through a divorce, I have friends close to me who are. My sister went through one and she does not think she needs any help, but she is mentally spiraling out of control. She listnes to what I have to say and says she will get therapy, but turns around and says she is ok. I have recently started seeing a therapist, for some past issues, as well as dealing with the changes menopause has thrown my way. New subscriber, I love your message. Thanks for sharing. ❤
Hopefully you can gingerly help her see her needs...🙏🏽
I so need the light that’s on the other side!!!
It’s there….i promise. ♥️🫶🏾
One day at a time ❤
Hi i just found your page on here because i follow your Tiktok/ IG already but i appreciate your content its very informative and i enjoy the ootd looks😊 too yes keep up great work your doing its encouraging. Thank you
Thank you for your support, it means a lot. Hopefully I can bring deeper topics that you all would like to talk about over here. ♥️
Thank you so very much. My name is Shirley I 💯 resonate with your divorce story. I will follow and continue to watch and comment. I so need a mature tribe to vibe with. I’m looking forward to more content.
Hi Shirley!! Welcome! ♥️ I’m part of your tribe now. 🥰
Hello, I’m 56th and I’m glad to find your channel
Thank you for being here! ❤️🙏🏾🥰
Melonie thank you so much for your transparency. This video spoke volumes to me. I’m in the process of living my life as an emotionally healthy woman and it’s amazing yet at times still a bit overwhelming when you’re so used to pleasing everyone except yourself. Again thank you and I look forward to more content from you ❤
Oh!!! We have lots in common then...the people pleasing is real! Insecurity, low self-esteem, aboandonment...it was rooted deep in me. Still working on it but much better than where I was. Hopefully you are too! ❤️
@@melonierenee I’m definitely better and excited about this beautiful life I’m building for myself with Jesus as my foundation there’s nothing I can’t accomplish 💕
Wow Melanie, I completely resonated with your story as it mirrors my own experience in so many ways. After ending a long term relationship and moving to a new state, I feel like a completely different person. Yes, the transition was difficult but at this stage in life I am at peace and living my best life. Just enjoying me time, developing new girlfriend relationships and dating. Thank you soooo much for sharing your journey! ❤❤
Wow!!! I’m so proud of you!! That takes a lot of courage. ♥️ I’m glad you enjoyed my story…🙏🏾
Thank you for sharing your story. You inspire me on TikTok and I know you are going to continue to do so for so many more people sis 🥰
Thank you Terry. My TikTok family inspires me every day with support. Thank you for being ‘family’ ♥️
Hello Sunshine, I have to say that God has his hands on you. Keep shining that light...
I receive that…♥️
It takes amazing courage and strength to share your story. Thank you! So many things resonated with me as well. You are truly amazing. Love and Blessings 🥰❤️❤️❤
Thank you. I’m really glad I shared it…tough for sure but cathartic. 🥰
I am so glad I connected with you 🙏🏾
Yay!!! Me too!!! Thank you for supporting me! 💕
I'm grateful I found your IG page and now your RUclips channel. There are many points you mentioned that resonated with me. Please continue to create more videos.
Thank you so much!!! I hope you're finding your journey healing and peaceful. ❤️
Thanks for sharing. You have given me some great nuggets to help me through my journey. Look forward to hearing more from you.
Your video is right on time. I believe the algorithm was reading my mind😂. Plz keep this going. I have to file for a DV sooner than later but want to be prepared and any information will help❤
First, divorce is never easy, regardless of the reason, so sending hugs. I'm happy to share anything I can to help others not go through what I did. It was challenging, embarrassing, and very hurtful. But at the end of the day...take care of you first. ❤
Thanks Sis. This was nice. It truly is a journey to find yourself again after a divorce.
You're so right. A very necessary journey. Thanks for being here. ❤️
Thank you for sharing! I love you over on TikTok, and I knowwwww I'm going to love you here on RUclips ❤❤!!! Welcome!
Thank you so much!!! ♥️♥️♥️
So brave to choose you under circumstances that many of us would stay. When you have kids and security, it is a hard call to make, worried about disrupting everything for everyone.
Hopefully, you will share more about your divorce process and the knowledge you wish you had then, for those of us who need it.
@@vkat9762 Thank you so much for that. Anything particular you’re curious about?
Such insightful nuggets in this video. I love all that you have shared and navigated as an overcomer. I can't wait to hear and learn more. Thank you.
Thank you SO much!! Posting a new vid this evening. 🥰❤
@@melonierenee Terrific! I will be sure to check in. Thanks.
I have so much to say, love this video but the green on you is fab!
Thank you…it’s my favorite color! 💚💚💚
You're amazing, Mel. Keep letting your light shine ✨️❤✨️
Thank you! You too!
I learned so much more about you today . . . ☺💙
Thank you for hanging with me. Glad you appreciated the bird’s eye view 🥰
Wow! I needed to hear all of this! Subscribed!!!🎉❤
@@movingforward789 Thank you so much! 😊
@@melonierenee You’re welcome! ☺️
Thank you for sharing. God bless. You are a great conveyor ✝️
Awww...🥲Thank you so much! ❤️
God bless you my beautiful sister! I just subscribed to your channel!
Thank You So Much for this message, you have said exactly what I have been feeling and going through..
Would love to hear more about the cause of the breakdown of your marriage and details of the divorce itself (specific things that you felt were negative not just that you didn’t get anything)
Right, like what happened? She mentioned being unequally yoked and having different values. What turned the tide?
I figured someone would ask. I don't share that part only because I have children with him. Sharing too much harms them. I'll allow you to deduce and infer. 😉
@@meloniereneemakes sense, and we understand. Thanks for the explanation.
Thank you for being courageous enough to share your story. You are such a beautiful and classy woman. Wishing you all the best❤
@@gent3119 Thank you very much ♥️
Thank you for sharing your story!
Thanks for sharing your story.
Thank you so much for watching. My most recent vid…I start to share a few more details on why it was important to choose myself. ♥️
Thank you for your transparency and encouraging words in sharing your stories!💛
I appreciate you dropping in. I'm so glad it resonated. 🥰
Thank you for being so open and transparent with your story. How long did it take for your divorce to be finalized? What were the biggest hurdles? What lessons did you learn during the process? Thank you.
Wow - all great questions! Would you mind if I answered this in a video?
Very raw and informative ❤
Thank you, friend. ♥️🙏🏾
No matter what, keep this going. You're going to inspire & help so many Ppl. P.S. As God elevates you, don't forget about little ole me🤗🥰😄❤️🌹❤️.
That's the goal...continuing to elevate and allowing myself to live in my freedom and truth.
You did such a great job with this video!!! Thank you!!!
Thank you SO much, that means a lot. Balancing transparency , respect, and consideration is a little tough. Glad it still resonated. 🥰
Would you please discuss how you rebuilt your self-confidence and self-esteem after divorce? 🙏🏽
Absolutely!!! May I use this comment in the video about it?
@@melonierenee Yes!!! 🙌🏽🙏🏽❤️
Thank you for making this video. Its so needed. I would love to hear how you navigated the court system as a black woman with children. I’m sure so many black women can benefit from advice and insite on what they may be up against when contemplating divorce in the US.
My pleasure...each one teach one...right? ❤️
Love it! ❤❤❤
Thank you...this is very cathartic for me.
OMG! I love listening to you!! Thank you for sharing! I think you’re very beautiful! #sisterhood
@@MsSpunkydee OMGosh!!! Thank you so much!! So glad you’re here!! 🥹♥️🥰
Great video.
Thank you SO much! ❤️
Blessings ❤
This was good. Crazy how this video just popped up on my timeline. I notice many similarities. I'm a Pk also who was taught no boys, they only want to get it your panties and nothing else about relationships, so when i finally left my parents home i ended up with the guy thay didn't pressure me for sex because thats all i knew to look for, so my list was shorter🤣. I get it. Definitely teaching my kids more and listening to them more . I applaud you for your transparency. I hope to get to that space of healing with God's help sooner than later.
Thank you so much for sharing this. It's amazing how little we're taught in how to date. I too, pray for your healing. 💕
Oh my goodness…I related to your story so much. I walked away after 20 yrs with nothing cause I just wanted peace.. my life is radically different and restored but ladies get an advocate!!! And go to therapy!!
@@texasrose31 ♥️🙏🏾
I've never been married but my question is, even tho your kids are older, do you have any communication with your ex husband at all? Just curious
Good question...no worries at all. I do not.
Hello beautiful I love it you are so amazing. ❤❤❤❤
Thank you, Curtis, I appreciate your support.
...🧎🏾♀️
Do u still have a relationship with your stepchild
✋🏾Did your husband know "where you were" in the marriage❓️
Absolutely
You are so Beautiful.
@@patricejames859 Thank you, Patrice…and so are YOU!!! ♥️
Reconcile with the FAMILIAR...🧎🏾♀️
❤️🙏🏾
This was enlightening. 🫶🏾
Thank you…telling your divorce story while maintaining dignity and respect can be challenging. I’m really glad I did it this way. ♥️
Thanks for sharing your story ❤
Thanks for sharing your story ❤