Should I Date A Man Who is Still in the Process of Divorce?
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So, Sara, like most situations that stymie my readers, the answer isn’t as obvious as “dump him” or “go for it”. It depends on the man, the nature of his divorce, his emotional availability, and his ability to get in touch with himself. Very reasonable men want to love again, and are shocked to find out that it’s not possible. On the other hand, you’ve heard tales of men who went seamlessly from one relationship to another without a break. You can listen to all these stories, but they won’t inform YOUR situation.
Here are the three points I’d like you to take away from this blog post:
A person who hides his separation online isn’t necessarily a bad person. He’s doing what’s practical not to scare people off. The relationship might have been dead five years ago, but the paperwork is still pending. That’s not his fault.
A man who says he’s ready to move on isn’t necessarily ready to move on.
You can never know if he is or if he isn’t. After all, he doesn’t even know if he is or if he isn’t.
Because of these contradictions, you have to do a reality check and assess whether a) he’s invested in you as a long-term partner, or b) whether you’re his transitional woman as he segues into single life.
Like knowing when to sleep with a guy, this is about intuition, not hard and fast rules. All you can do is trust your gut and don’t second guess yourself every step of the way. You’re doing the best you can.
And if you want the support of others who have been through the process of dating after divorce, check out DivorceNet.com, a site where I used to moderate an online dating forum.
Good luck.
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Related Posts:
- How Do I Date After My Divorce If I Think All Women Are Gold Diggers?
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- Why Do Women in Their 30s Not Want to Date Men in Their 40s?
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- I Want My 6 Week Boyfriend To Finalize His Divorce and Cut Off Contact With His Ex Wife!
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36 Comments »Filed Under Dating Tips & Advice, Online Dating Tips & Advice, Sex & Relationship Advice
Nicole Marie 1
Ugh. So not what I totally needed to hear. (ie Thank You) I think I’m switching teams for awhile.
Diamond 2
I wish I had read this two weeks ago, it would have saved me from many headaches! It definitely helps going forward!
moving on 3
I have had an on again/off again with my boyfriend of 11 years. We split 5 months ago and it appears this time it’s for real. I tried dating many times during our break ups, but only had one somewhat serious relationship and that took me 6 years on the roller coaster ride to even get to that. I feel like I have been alone more than I was with my boyfriend all those years and I’ve had a hard time letting anyone back in. I was happily married for about 4 years prior to that. Circumstances beyond my control changed that relationship and I cheated on my husband before leaving the relationship. I really hurt him and wish I had never ended it that way.
I recently started dating a man whom I have known for about 6 years. He and his wife have been physically seperated for 9-10 months and it is a very bitter divorce because it involved infidelity on his part. I could see the marriage falling apart about 2 years ago when he became obviously anxious, depressed, lost alot of weight and just seemed miserable. Having known his wife casually, my take at that time was that she was a high powered executive making all the money and he kind of became a Mr. Mom. It was obvious to me that he felt he had no power or control in the relationship and went from a very robust, happy, outgoing guy to an “emasculinated” shred of the man I knew. He has taken the last 9 months to heal and be with his kids.
He has admitted his infidelity to her and to everyone else and expressed his remorse and shame many, many times. However, he initiated the divorce as he was miserable.
Complicated little situation, but I have been there and done that. However, I have NEVER and would NEVER cheat on someone that I loved and respected and blow a GOOD relationship. It was a cowardly move on my part not to simply walk away, rather than cheat, but it is easier said than done. Perhaps that is why I can relate to and believe in what happened in their marriage.
I do not condone infidelity, even though I was guilty of doing it. I would have done ANYTHING to save my last relationship, but it just kept us in limbo for too many years.
Basically, here are two lonely people who knew and rspected each other prior to the demise of our relationships. We always liked each other, but were only friends.
Am I crazy to even think of continuing this even though it is in an early and casual stage???? Again, I feel like the only reason I don’t think badly of him is because I’ve been there. The “once a cheater always a cheater” does NOT apply to me. I loved my boyfriend and never so much as winked at another man until our first real breakup when I moved out of our home. Our last try lasted almost a year and even though I spent much of it alone, I still did not cheat. I only wanted him.
Advice, comments from anyone??
Collins 4
In the summer of 2006, I went on a date with a woman 10 years my senior (I’m 31 now). After we had dinner she revealed to me that she was separated from her husband but not officially divorced. I gave her the benefit of the doubt until she stood me up for a 2nd date. Then I decided I’d had enough, & now she’s out of my life. The lesson I’ve learned from this is that separation (as opposed to legal divorce) means one foot still in the door. A woman can easily use the “pending divorce” alibi to string me along & make me play 2nd fiddle to some guy I don’t even know. (Some men do this to women also; it goes both ways.) So I’ll make sure that the next gal I date has BOTH feet out of the door.
Dee 5
Our marriage was over years ago. We were just waiting for the kids to grow up. Now we can be free, but after years of intwined finances, we can’t just file for divorce online and be done. With the housing market like it is, we can’t sell our joint properties without huge losses. As I restart my career, I don’t yet have a work history to enable me to refinance our homes in my own name. I’m stuck. Capital gains taxes mean that we have to proceed carefully and, sadly, slowly. Does this mean I can’t date?
downtowngal 6
Evan I agree that just because someone is willing to date doesn’t mean he’s ready. I know of lots of women who’ve gotten involved with guys who were separated only to have their hearts broken because these guys just weren’t ready to commit emotionally. For me hearing that a guy is separated is a red flag because I’m looking for something more serious.
A person who hides his separation online may not be a bad person but he’s a liar. Most marriages end before they’re over, but there IS a difference – emotionally and legally – between separation and divorce. If the person’s only separated but looking just to date, then fine, but don’t lie in your profile about your marital status. There is no “almost” divorced like there’s no ‘almost’ pregnant.
Zann 7
Like Evan said, no two people are alike, and no two situations are identical when it comes to the demise of a marriage or other long-term relationship. I was married for 20 years and had what most people would describe as a mature, amicable divorce. I’d seen it coming for several years, had given up begging him to do couples counseling with me, & just sort of went on automatic. Like many women, I wanted to get the kids raised before calling it quits. When my husband told me he’d become involved with another woman & wanted to move out to spend more time with her, well, that kinda brought things to a close. Still, there was little animosity, no drama, and I thought it would be a breeze. But when he physically moved out of the house, it was a very different story. I couldn’t believe how my whole reality seemed to shift, just having his physical presence, his domestic partnership with me, no longer there. A year later we were legally divorced and that was another shock — the finalization. That was 8 years ago, and I have had 3 exclusive relationships of a year or more since then, but I wasn’t ready, even though I swore I was. It wasn’t until about a year ago and a good chunk of time outside a relationship that I felt I was really ready to be an equal partner in a serious relationship….where I finally acknowledged my insecurities, accepted them, forgave myself (85%), and feel I can actually get outside of ME to where I can honestly say I’m available. I have been involved with men who sincerely believe, as I did, that they are ready for a new life, new love, because they “deserve it.” Well, we all deserve it, but that doesn’t mean it’s ready to happen. But a wounded divorced person doesn’t want to hear that. He’s hurting and he wants comfort, and what better comfort than the arms of a centered, solid, together, loving woman who’s NOT his ex-wife. As a woman who has been those “open arms” to a man, I can say that I will do everything I can now to avoid that not-ready man. Even though there’s no hard & fast rule for how long someone should be separated/divorced before seeking a new relationship, there are certain indicators that make my ears perk right up & acknowledge, out there on the horizon, the large red flag that’s waving at me. For me, the primary indicator is if he launches into a diatribe on your first or second date (or maybe even in a pre-date email!) about what a hurtful, cold, low-down, bitch his ex-wife is. Or she was too controlling, or she took him to the cleaners, or she wrecked his family, OR — and this is a real teller — he never saw it coming. Sorry, the man is still “reeling,” as Evan says. So, it’s not necessarily the length of time since his divorce, but what he has to say about it. I recently had coffee, a first meeting, with a man I’d met online, and when I asked him, “So, how long were you married?” his answer was “too long!” Haha. I chalked that one up to nervousness. So then I tried, “Well, how long have you been divorced?” “Not long enough!” Haha again. “Check please!”
Gail 8
Hi Evan,
I could swear you’ve been hiding in my closet. What you describe is weirdly similar to something I’ve been going through. Im a 49 year women whos never been married but has had some significant relationships in my life. Enough to know what Im looking for in a man and in a relationship.
When I met Brian he said he was divorced, but legally he was separated. Its been my experience that once the women files for divorce (she left him for another man), the man considers himself divorced. But that doesnt mean hes ready for a relationship.
So I fell into the classic He thinks hes ready for a relationship but hasnt figured out hes not. We had a marvelous 2 months together before he disappeared into the I need time to think mode leading to minimal email contact ending in no email contact.
Five months later he reappears stating that hes slain his personal dragons and wants to try again indicating a long-term relationship. He took full responsibility for his actions. Of course our timing is off when a close family member of his dies before we can have our second 1st date. Suffice it to say we did have our second first date a few weeks later, with total understanding on my part for the time lag.
The date went well, although in hind sight, I wished we spent less time making out and more time talking. We ended the date with him saying hed call about which night to go out the following weekend. I havent heard from him since. Its been about 10 days. I know short time, but perhaps indicative (after reading your other postings).
Perhaps even now hes not ready, perhaps hes still grieving for his recent loss, perhaps he should at least call to say these things. Perhaps Im asking too much.
In the mean time, I’m trying to stay balanced, and prepare myself to let go of him and move on. Even though I thought I had finally met my near perfect match. Surely theres another one out there.
peggy rush 9
WOW this is so scarey to here becauce i’m waiting for him(wes) to figure things out.. I pray its not over and i no everyone and every relationship is diff.. I felt and (so did he) that we are perfect for each other.We enjoy each other company so much laugh together enjoy doing things like laundry and grocery shopping and we have so much fun with this.
His been away from his wife for nine years and goin thru devorce for almost two years and the end is coming..By the way it was a 36 year marrage and things have been wonderful he’s so good to me in every way and now thet he’s weeks from he final ending of this marriage he came to me and says he dosn’t trust himself???? what dose this mean and i love him so much afraid to find out.. I no he needs space i have no problem with this he needs to greave the death of the marriage but now i feel my life with him is ending..I have NEVER enjoyed someone as much as him and by reading these other storys/blogs i fear this is the end.. We live next to each other and its come to texting and emails becauce he no’s how painful this is for me and i just don’t no what to do..
I wish there were a book that would tell me wat to do..I’m 52 and he’s 53 and at our age this whole dating thing is just not easy..
I wish someone could help me and i PRAY that months down the road i can tell someone to hang in and give them there space but i’m not sure thats what i need to do.. I don’t want to hurt and wait for someone thats not going to be ava to me again.
HELP if you can.. My family loves me and can’t be abjective becauce they want to pertect me.Need advice or just encouraging word or just truth….Sorry for some spelling not my best subject and no spell ck on the comment area
Michele 10
Very true that emotionally a divorce can be dreadful and I do concur with EMK that individuals tender their feelings in different ways….countless variables to consider.
An honest assessment (REAL REALITY CHECK) is the only way to determine when a/o if one is prepared to enter singlehood again. Prepared in a manner so as not to hurt others or her/himself.
Since most of those who have replied to Sara’s dilemma are members of the female gender, my humble agreement is on point with EMK. Put all aside and listen to your gut. Took me a lot of “practice” dates to reach the point of being able to trust my gut. And I still slip up every so often. It’s simply a human thing and I do feel that continued practice might just make it perfect (one day).
Sigh 11
Evan – I think you hit the nail right on the head. I have been separated for 21 months now…living separate lives in different states. I have filed for divorce months ago. But legal technicalities, like my ex currently being out of the country, has left me in a legal bind, so the divorce continues to be pending. He has moved on about a year ago and started dating other people (but choosing not to tell them about the marriage/divorce issue). I needed some “me” time, so I went date-free for about a year and a half since the separate, and I started dating about 3 months ago. I choose to tell the guys that I date either before or no later than on the 1st date.
But the reaction have been mixed. I’ve gotten anything from:
1) “That’s okay, I still want to date you,” but then they never even ask about the circumstances surrounding the divorce. That, IMHO, is a very bad sign. I think it shows that the guy is maybe a little emotionally too desperate and may have some self-esteem issues. What if the girl is an emotional wreck? What if she just filed for divorce like a week ago? What if she hasn’t even filed, but thinks she separated because her guy cheated on her? Or it could be she has been separated years ago. Filed divorce a long time ago, and for whatever technical reasons (money, kids, legal technicalities, etc), the judge just hasn’t finalized it. It could be any of those, so you’re taking a chance by not asking questions.
2) “I like you, but I’m not comfortable dating you in your situation.” And never ask about the circumstances surrounding the divorce. This is also bad. What YOU think my situation is, could be completely different than what my situation REALLY is. For example, what are you concerned about? That they have one foot in the door? What if that’s not the case? What if it’s like me where BOTH people want to move on, but it’s now a legal issue and not an emotional one? Again, another unformed decision. Maybe this guy has the pick of the lot, so he doesn’t have to “deal” with women going through a divorce. But, IMHO, he might be missing out on a really great girl who is emotionally available and ready to date again.
3) “I like you, but let’s talk about your divorce.” Now, ideally ALL guys would choose this option. Find out about their exact situation and make an informed decision and go from there. If you just take the time to ask and find out what’s going on, most people will tell you honestly and openly. “Oh, I just got separated a couple months ago and I haven’t really filed any papers yet.” Might be red flag. Or it could be “Well, the divorce is pretty drama-free. We both agree on the divorce and have pretty much hammered out a neutral settlement. I filed the papers a few months ago and it’s just pending a judge’s signature now, but that could take a few more months. Here is the name and number of my divorce attorney just in case you want verification.”
I mean, your answers can run the gammut, but until you get this answer, I don’t believe you should jump to any conclusions either way.
No one situation is the same, and it’s your job to do your homework. You don’t want to end up dating someone who isn’t emotionally available. But you also don’t want to end up losing a great person just because you might *think* all people going through a divorce are emotionally unavailable either. It’s up to you to find out about the exact person YOU are dating and their divorce situation.
Michelle 12
I’m going to reply as the wife. My husband and I have been separated for over a year and we both use that papers excuse for why it’s not final. But truth be told it’s not because we don’t want it to be. He has a girlfriend 10 years his junior also. He still tells me he loves me and right now we are talking about getting back together. I have always come first. I have been in the same room with her and he won’t even introduce her to me. Noone in his family knows about her especially not his mother. Those two things alone should let her know how important she is to him in real life, not just the bedroom. The reason is because she’s not who he really wants to be with. We have 11 years together, children together and we have too much history together to let a short fling keep us from being together if we’re still in love. I feel bad for her but my family comes first. I know that if I was single I wouldn’t set myself for emotional heartbreak by being with a married… oops separated man.
Sharon 13
Hi I just have to comment.
I agree with Evans blog. I do believe every one and every situation needs to be assessed as each person is different in how they handle grief/separation how the marriage ended, who wanted it to end, how long has he/she been separated? Also, I think because of how men handle grief, that it is much more likely you will find a man who is out there trying to date in order to get over his marriage, not get over his marriage and then date.
I made the mistake of dating and falling in love with a man who was separated from his wife. I didnt like the situation, but he was so convincing that it was truly over. We had many many talks at the beginning where I stated that I was uncomfortable going forward with someone who had so much history with the other person, and he was likely to go back. Well, things moved along until bam! 7 months in the relationship around the holidays he started backpedaling and now guess what? He is having reconciliation talks with his soon to be ex. When I met him he was moved out, had his own place, had purchased furniture I stayed over there all the time while we were together. He acted and treated me like a valued girlfriend and partner. He had filed papers a month before meeting me and was in the process of it. However, that doesnt matter and my heart has been smashed to bits.
So, I am saying, everyone is different, but TAKE IT SLOW and keep your other options open. You dont want to end up like me, heart broken and feeling used.
starthrower68 14
I guess there are is a lot of gray area here, and I think part of it is how averse you are to risk. I’m very risk averse so dating a guy who is merely separated is not an option for me. I wouldn’t want to get emotionally involved with someone, only to find out I’m the rebound girl. On the other hand, my ex met his current wife 2 months into our separation. She had concerns about it, but it worked for them. I knew that I had to get to that point of being happy and content with no romantic relationship before I could be involved in one. Still watching for the right one, but I can at least say I’m having fun with life right now.
Renee' 15
wow this is scarey and sad too read these. I just came on here because I’ve been struggling for the last month with these issues all of u have.I can;t help but feel somehow I should have googled this at the begining of my so called relationship with a seperated man. We knew eachother for years and I’d always had a kind of liking towards him although we were both married. I am divorced now and have been for a few years. I nhad been hearing for some time that he was seperated. so i faced bnooked him to see where he stood. well of course we got to talking and intensely helping him come out of a dark place he informed me his marriage had been over for some time and i had nothing to worry about. well all was wonderful until his father passed away unexpectdly around the holidays. The ex now stepped back intop the picture and show boated at the funeral leaving me oo back off as i didnt want any drama. that was a month ago and ive only seen him mabe 3 hours. he says hes confussed and that he is numb. reading all of ur excerpts makes me see exactly wats going on. i am kinda glad to know i am not alone or its not my fault. i feel ive done something bad.
Christina 16
I am a separated woman of seven years with a pending divorce. We have lived in different states since 2003. The divorce was finally filed in 2009 and we should be divorced by now. My should-be ex changed his mind at the last minute and hasn’t signed on the dotted line. I already went through the different phases one usually goes through years ago , have already gone through counseling and although not divorced started casually dating in 2008. In 2009 I met someone and we fell seriously in love, both believing we would be sharing a life together but todate there are still hang-ups and I’m still not divorced. We are both frustrated and I’m not sure if we can survive the stress. We both have a variety of feelings we’re going through from not being able to spend as much time together as possible. Not being able to freely go out in public together or show our affection for each other. Not being able to move in together. We’re celebrating our first anniversary but he’s upset because I’m still married and says that’s not how he wants to remember our first year together. My attorney has strongly advised me not to see him until divorce is final which could take years now because my should-be ex had a serious accident and is recovering. My boyfriend and I love each other very much but he says I should listen to my attorney and doesn’t want to see me until this is over. I think that if we stop seeing each other, it’ll hurt our relationship to a point it will not survive.
Kate 17
I read this over 8 months ago when I started dating a separated man. He was very loving, attentive and complimentary. Things progressed to where I moved into his house with he and his daughter. He told me I was the one… almost 8 months to the day, he said, “I shouldn’t have started a relationship so soon after the split… I should have just f*cked around.” He has a new “girlfriend” now that he started dating while I was still living there. He’s no closer to actually getting a divorce.
They really aren’t ready to move on. Most really do want to sow their oats. I’m kicking myself for not taking this advice to heart. Never, ever again. It’s way too much drama and heartache.
Goldie 18
It never even entered my mind to date when I was separated, because I feared my ex would find out and somehow use it against me in terms of finance/custody. But then, 1)I’m paranoid in general, and 2)our divorce went very smoothly and was finalized very quickly. Don’t know what I would do if it dragged out for years.
)
As far as dating someone who’s separated, I did date a separated guy and it didn’t work out; but then, I’m seeing another separated guy now and it appears to be working out. Big difference between the two as I see it, is this: 1) guy #1 had originally lied to me saying he was divorced, and only admitted to being separated about six weeks after we met, after I asked him “hey, don’t remember, when did you say your guys’ court date was?” that’s how I found out there had never been a court date. I would not have found out otherwise. and 2) he did not know how far along they were, and for all I could tell he did not care, and was not doing anything to speed things up. He just stayed happily legally married while dating me, as well as other women on the side. We ended it because he insisted on being exclusive and I didn’t have it in me to agree to it (shocking, I know
With guy #2 on the other hand, I knew right away that he was separated, how far along the process was, that it was moving along fast and that it’ll be over soon. Big difference, to me.
That said, I’ve only been divorced for a few months myself and I am not looking for a serious long-term relationship right now. On behalf of everyone recently separated, I’d say if you want an LTR, marriage and kids, don’t date us. We’re still very confused about what we want from our future and what kind of person we want to be with. Right now I cannot even think about ever getting legally married again. Not ready by any means.
Diane 19
Like many of these examples, I was in a similar situation. I learned my lesson
, don’t date married men! (Separated is still married)
I met this man out of the blue when he was NOT looking for any women, it was just life throwing us together in a cute situation. We had an awesome 6 months…although I had in the back of mind that I had to be very cautious with him (not introducing each other to our kids was a big clue!), I underestimated my feelings. He eventually told me he just couldn’t be in a relationship, that we were a great couple but the timing was bad. Very sad, took me awhile to get over, but life does go on.
I also dated a man who was divorced twice and he told me it took him 3 years to get over each marriage–that’s what his therapist told him as a guideline too, 3 years. Of course everyone is different, but from real life experience, I think this is pretty accurate. ESPECIALLY if it’s a mature man, he will need time and go through what men need to go through to get to the other side.
P.S. For on line dating, I DO NOT think it’s right to say you’re divorced when you’re separated. I do think there is a difference…and the people that have been burned understand this. My opinion of course…
Diane 20
@Goldie #18
Great post and points…this stuff takes time and patience, with oneself and others who are in similar situations.
ambika 21
I met a guy on website and unfortunately he said he was divorced but I find out from our first phone conversation that he was separated not yet divorced. I agree to meet him for a drink and it took us 3 months to finally meet for that first drink. We met and had a nice time and he was holding my hands and even tried to go for that first kiss while we were in the cab as he was droping me off. I told him taht I was not comfortable kissing him so early since we’ve just met. He was agentleman and he said that he would be out of town for 2 weeks and that he would like for us to get together for dinner when he gets back. It’s been 3 weeks and He has never mentioned about us meeting up again.
He’s currently separated so he said and has been for last 6 months and he wife filed for divorce while she was already cheating on him. They have 2 kids and it’s pretty ugly between them.
I wish that I NEVER went for a drink with him. He’s a complete mess emotionally but overall a great person.
Jade 22
….One more thing. I called him and asked if his divorce was final and he said with a quirk in his voice that he has a couple of things to work out. He just didn’t tell me and was evasive about that and the fact that the xgf was saying she is pregnant. He waited 2 months to tell me. I am so hurt. I am confused. I shouldn’t be confused bc he is the one that put the cart before the horse not me. I am walking away. Its weird bc he kept telling me he wants to do what is right in God’s eyes. Then he shouldn’t have started dating me. Now he wants just friendship and I will smile at him if we see each other at the gym but all this explains why I always met him at the tennis courts, never spent the night at his home, etc etc. Wow! Have I learned a lesson.
carmen 23
ambika
I am currently seeing someone who matches this EXACT description. We met thru a popular dating website. What city is he in? Chicago? I found out through our first phone conversation that he was married, not divorced, and he is an overall great guy, talks about marriage, calls me constantly…
Terry 24
Everyone, please use caution if you are Christian – we are to remain true to the Bible – please seek Christian counsel, as any conversation about dating after divorce (or dating the divorced or separated) touches on serious spiritual consequences. There are hearts involved, and often little ones – and we need to reset the spiritual example in the world that has lost morals and focused on self gains. Set the example – and fall in love with God! The benefits are amazing, and a promise. You can always have a full refund on your loneliness if it doesn’t work…
it will, guaranteed. Careful of selfish advice served up as wisdom, as it is very attractive advice that leaves us empty. You are strong enough to find a wonderful match that is not married, or to be completely satisfied alone, and with God, leading the way. I believe in you, and so does our Lord! Joyful blessings, Terry
Haksy 25
kudos to Terri <3 why can’t lonely separated ppl just watch sad movies and masturbate. Leave single honest ppl alone to be able to find real love
Kelly 26
People need time to heal after a divorce. Dating seperated people is a bad idea you are the rebound person.
Shawna 27
I was married very young, probably didn’t even know what love was and when I found out he was cheating on me, I left. He kept wanting for us to get back together and when suggested that we go to counseling, he said he didn’t believe in it. I left. While I was separated I started dating someone else, who was separated. He moved in with me. The next eight months, I lived with this man completely spun out of my mind dwelling inside an emotionally roller coaster, not because I still loved my husband, but something about the paperwork, the failure of a marriage and the fact I felt like I couldn’t make something work. The day I received my divorce papers, it was like I looked at the man that had been living with me and sharing my bed for the past eight months, who I cared for and even loved, like “What are you doing here?” We had a heart to heart talk and I asked him if he had filed for his divorce papers, he said NO. Then I said, “You have to go.” I was not ready to be in a committed relationship with someone so soon and now that I was single again, I surely wasn’t going to wait around for years for him to divorce his wife. I just turned 28, felt free and wanted to go out a enjoy single life. Plus, he had kids and hadn’t even made one effort to get his divorce started. Years later, now at 40, I met a man who is separated from his wife, filed for divorce and swore he was ready to meet someone new and be in a relationship. I was very skeptical, even discussed my past experience with being divorced. He said that he doesn’t feel that way because he’s in his forty’s not his 20′s like I was when I got my divorce. Any way, we went on to date each other and even started to fall in love with one another. Then I started to notice a change in him. We would have so much fun together and whenever it was time to leave, he’d have this look of terror in his face. We would talk everyday sometimes twice a day, but now I wouldn’t hear from him a day or two after we spent time together. So, I ended it because I felt like he still had one foot in that door. He pursued and pursued to meet up for lunch and when I finally agreed, I asked him what was going on with his behavior. He replied with how he felt guilty over being happy with me, when he is putting his kids through this turmoil. Our conversations dwindled. The last time I saw him, he looked like he’d been hit by a bus. The guy that I met and fell for could no longer show up. And I think that he can’t even show up for himself right now. So, I just stopped returning calls and texts. Six weeks later, he’s now calling again. I haven’t picked up the phone or talked to him. I still care for him, but he’s not divorced, he has two little ones and I think I should just keep moving forward and not look back.
Tamara 28
I was in a relationship the last 6 months with a married man. I’m 31, he’s 52 and told me he was seperated but stuck with his wife who’s 55 and lived in a different city, still together because of finances, a business, etc. He said she was crazy, became a lesbian and they were friends. We spent every day/night together, I met his friends, travelled together, etc. He told me time and time again how much he loved me, begged for my patience, etc. finally after he lied twice about his whereabouts, I called his “wife” on the phone-just to talk woman to woman. That was a low point for me. That night was our official break-up yet he called me many times after. His wife Was rude And in denial. It’s only been a few weeks and I’m still very devastated! it’s hard to leave someone you love but someone who’s “legally” married is not worth it.
Monika 29
I am going through this right now and the man I am inlove with is separated from his wife going on a year and a half. He is now going through divorce proceedings, I have given him his space and started dating other people because I dont want him to think I am just gonna sit and wait around for him to make up his mind on whether he wants to be with me or not. We have been dating for 7 months and we have had awesome times, however most recently he left me to go take his stuff from her house to a storage and his inlaws showed up to pray over him and his wife.
This caused him to become distant and tell me he loves me, but he is confused.
I am not a homewrecker and I didnt know he still has feelings for her, just has alot of animosity toward her for using him to raise her sons for several years and once her son graduated admitted he was her second choice. I felt sorry for him, but he obviously saw something in her or he wouldnt have been with her for 9 yrs. Anyway, long story short he claims its been over for about 2 years and yet I feel like Im in a yoyo relationship. So, I am giving him space and I am investing my time in men that are available and will make me the center of my world. It hurts to let go, but its what is best for both of us. Especially me because I have a big heart and I am ready to be loved and give my all to a man that feels the same. I wish everyone the best and I hope you change your mind about dating a married or separated man because the heartache and tears arent worth it!
Brad 30
I liked the article very much, but what I really enjoyed was reading the relies of so many honey ladies…I was looking for one real insight for how I should proceed, this was actually very informative.
Again thank you ladies, I want to where have you all been all my life…but I now know I have to be patient and allow my soul to heal. You see my wife after 20yr also asked for a divorce, not finalized but I too felt hurt and immediately wanted to patch up that sucking chest would before I died inside, then I talked myself into thinking I am good go, that it wasn’t me not willing to try and save the marriage – so feeling no guilt, I decided to start looking.
I even think being 43 is late to be dumped and to try to get back into the game, hence this is what may have also fueled my urgency.
By reading here what you gals have written with your true feeling due to the nature and anonymity of this forum, it felt good to her from your perspective. I wish you all the best in your search…
Brad
Brad 31
Sorry for the random words my auto correcting iPad as it blatantly interjected the wrong words..just read past them, please.
Megan 32
Thanks for this blog and all of the comments. I recently went through an experience with a man who was married 30 years and 8 months into a separation. I really fell for him and for the first month, I thought he did for me too. We were so happy and excited to find eachother and he couldn’t wait to introduce me to his children and his family, which he did.
However, no matter how much my heart wanted it to work, my head was waving the red flags. And then on our fourth date he told me “Well, I still love my wife and I guess I always will.” He also told me that she had slept at their house to take care of their dogs while he had to work late. After processing all of this for several weeks and going through the grieving process, I told him I couldn’t keep dating him. It was REALLY painful. He wasn’t happy about my leaving, but I think he is in the forest right now and doesn’t see that it couldn’t work right now.
All I say is be very careful, listen to your gut instincts. They are there for a reason.
liez 33
Thank you so much for this blog. I enjoyed reading it till the end.
I am about to meet this guy a week from now, whom I met online thru a dating site. We are both Asian, and he lives in the US. I met him(online) almost a year now, we were talking and I can’t deny that I am liking him. But, distance is just hard to handle. So I told him to contact me when we is able to go back his homeland. So yeah, we started to chat again. I remembered him before that he said he was divorced but I just found out that they are just separated and is about to get a divorce only waiting for some amendments. I did not pay much attention until I have a gut feeling of whether or not to meet this guy or getting intimate. He wanted to meet me in his hometown, and introduce to his parents and the rest of the family, we will b spending days together. But a week from meeting him, he wasn’t able to replied my calls and finally we were able to chat and he said he was fixing stuff about his travel. He told me we can’t be having our planned holiday together coz he needs to fix something. I was like, WTF..Deep inside me, tells me to let go and forget about this guy, but part of me tells me to hold on and give him the benefit of the doubt.
But reading all your sentiments, only scares me..
I am crossing my fingers wither or not to see him next week.
I don’t want my heart to be broken when I’ve seen signs..
But life is like a gamble..I’ll just have to play my cards well..
sensual 34
this has come at just the right time-
and For those who are going through it- it is best page to read- I have been casted in all the roles above.. let me elaborate:
Me and my ex separated when he cheated on me, after 15 yrs of marriage with a girl half my age, and I thought I am young, beautiful, successful and can find another man- another part of me wanted a secure home for my children for I know no man can love my children like their real father.
6 months of separation- I met 3 guys (cosmos does send things in 3s
)
2 online and 1 in real life.. I have met all in person- so it is more or less real with all..
1st Man- claimed to be divorced- and he could actually understand and talk to me about children and divorce and tension- he claimed to be in love and claimed to have legally separated from wife- we met a number of times for weeks- and there were some red-flags like him not being able to be reached on weekends when he said he went to therapy etc. (do not close your eyes to RED FLAGs- EVER)
2nd Man- successful- younger and single (never married), he was online and met me later too- he claimed to be in love and wanted to marry me as soon as I got divorced, (I had filed for divorce but it took 2 YEARS to get it for custody of children was in contestation in court). This man loved me BUT I was projecting my issues on him since he was never married he had no idea of divorce and children issues which made me feel disconnected.
3rd Man- a long time friend who was separated from wife for 3 years- wife left him, he and I got together to just chill out- before we knew we had a relation and loved eachother (this man I LOVED too- not the other two). 6 months of roller coaster, he has not even filed for divorce-
………………………………………………………………………..
…..now this continued for 1.5 yrs… here is the OUTCOME:
1st Man- I found out- he is still legally married and shares a home with wife and he had been lying for 2 yrs and NOW he promises to file for divorce. I am so hurt by all the lies that I can not now trust him. – OVER
2nd Man- He is the one who I consider a LOSS.. my own longitude of separation and divorce / custody issues have probably stretched too long. He just could not deal with it anymore. He offered me to move in with him for he wanted a real relation, I asked him to WAIT- WAIT- WAIT. after 2 yrs- he left – OVER
3rd Man- Now after months of waiting he has still not filed for divorce- and I guess he wont be able to. We both were lonely and bed is cold when alone. We understand eachother’s issues YET the physical side that we have shared is now rendered us unable to be Friends as we were. I lost a friend and did not find a lover. We keep our disstance from eachother. OVER
—
in last 2 yrs- I was first sorry for myself- then angry on my ex- then I lost my vigor- then I was split by what to do- and how to secure my future and now I lost all 3 men- the 2nd Man is the one who was READY not the separated or liars. Period
–
now I am finally divorced and single and alone.. and now I just concentrate on my career and home, also all the men have gone from my life so suddenly- it is Empty- atleast there is no more guilt or turmoil. I did not lie to any of them Except that they had no idea there were others.
I was not ready – and now that I m- there is no man. LOL
well- at 38 – I feel old suddenly and my ex is now moving with a new GF again younger and I feel Men Handle is better than Woman. (my opinion)
–
so separated men and women (me) are a NO NO- just befriend them and Wait patiently if you can- they will be able to love you once they start to love themselves fully, which will take time.
thank you all for your responses and I feel good after writing it out.
peace
Katarina Phang 35
Wow Sensual, thanks for a well written post. It succinctly sums up that there is such thing as not being ready for a relationship even when you think you are for both men and women (who typically just got out of a marriage/long term relationship). You won’t know it though until new/same issues come up in the new relationship.
There is no growth faster than what a relationship brings. Transitional relationships are necessary for healing but not at anyone’s expense so to anyone who is involved in this kind of relationship, beware!
Ray 36
People who are separated or recently divorced are a bad risk. I would not waste my time with men in that situation… especially if they lied about it.
Men have a hard enough time being giving and caring in the best of circumstances. After or during a divorce, they are doing even more sucking you dry emotionally. If you are the kind of woman who enjoys lots of ‘volunteer’ work and having a project, then go for it.
Personally, I prefer ones who have got their junk together and can prove it…