Forgiveness and Emotional Health After Virginia Divorce

After a Virginia divorce, forgiveness comes more easily to some people than to others. If you're the type of person who's eager to embrace healing and forgive your ex-husband, make sure you're taking a wise approach to accepting him back into your life.

Forgiveness does not have to include being friends with your ex. You can simply let go of feelings of resentment and a desire for revenge against him, and leave it at that. Sometimes, an ex who is controlling might want to be "friends" in order to keep tabs on you and maintain some hold over your life.

Ideally, forgiveness should come when the person who wronged you apologizes and shows that he has changed. If your ex hasn't done that yet, you should seriously consider whether you want to pursue a friendship with him. If your ex-husband was ever abusive or manipulative with you, be exceptionally cautious about the prospect of letting him back into your life in any way and know that his behavior likely can't change without serious therapeutic intervention.

If you have children with your ex, the child custody arrangements may make it impossible to avoid him entirely. If that's the case, you can be civil to him without letting him in emotionally.

The period following Virginia divorce can be difficult for a woman. You may feel lonely, isolated and overwhelmed by all your new responsibilities. At this time, it's important to seek support from friends, family, a therapist, or a local divorce support group.

This way, you can recover from your Virginia divorce and embrace forgiveness without sacrificing your emotional health or self-respect. Consider that your emotional well-being and the well-being of your children is more important than giving your ex- the forgiveness he may be seeking.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.