discussion title:
New here, new to single motherhood
My husband of 5 years asked me for a divorce yesterday. He said that we're incompatible and that he really prefers the single life. He had never really opened up to me before, so I had no idea he felt this way, and now he's unwilling to try to work on things. We have an almost four year old daughter, and I'm trying to hold everything together for her, but I'm really scared. I haven't worked in four years, not since Autumn was born, although I did recently finish my bachelor's degree (in an extremely low paying field). I would have looked for a job but we were in the process of moving (or so I thought) when he told me he didn't want me to move with him. We hadn't seen each other for 5 months, so this was a surprise to me, because I don't know what events led up to this- we haven't argued in months and he kept talking about how he loves and misses us and can't wait to see us. If that's the case, I don't know why he's unwilling to try to work it out. If he just likes being single, and likes not having any responsibilities and not having to answer to anyone, he should have thought about this years ago.
Anyway. My parents are going to let me stay with them for a year or so while I get back on my feet. But I'm horrified that I'm not going to be able to make it financially as a single mom. I'm horrified that I won't find a job, and horrified that I'll never be able to provide for Autumn the way my parents provided for me. I'm hoping to go back to school for a certificate program in January, which would be completed by that December- so that's the time frame I'm looking at. Hopefully lining up a job as a paralegal shortly after that (obviously I will be working between now and then to cover our expenses) and moving out on my own. I'm looking to meet new people going through the same thing I am- I'm still not really wanting to open up to any of my friends.
