I understand how your feeling. At 45 years old, I am starting over. I too wanted the traditional marriage that lasted but unfortunately that dream is ending for me. I only hope that I can find someone to live the rest of my life out with.
Separations of any kind make us 2nd guess and question ourselves. We tend to blame ourselves for the failure. I still struggle with it. The way I have handled it has not been the most traditional way. I tried to imagine my ex happy with someone else. I found myself smiling and in turn feel that putting that positiveness out will return to me. What people often forget after being married for a while, is the love they had initially. It gets lost in the everyday mundane things life brings us. I try and remind myself that the love was there but, it got lost and most times we never feel that love with that person again. But, we still love and that love will eventually go toward someone else who will love and respect us. Be strong. We are all here for you.

Broken_Bridges

Awww...I can imagine how difficult it must be for you today but try to stay strong. (Easier said than done, I know) . I'm glad you are proud of your parents(I'm proud of them too! lol) and it's because of your parents strong relationship that your relationship expectations were as such which is commendable and beautiful all the same. Please don't beat yourself up or feel like you failed in your relationship. You didn't. Sometimes the end is actually the beginning of something beautiful. Someone truly meant for you who makes you whole again. Makes you smile and not sad. Uplifts you in every possible way...and gives you the love your parents have had all these years! Trust! Fate is crazy!
Sending you unconditional love to get through your day!

My parents were married for 47 years before my mom died and this recent separation has got me down because it was supposed to be till death. Life happens and sometimes your just not meant to be with the one you thought. It will get better, people are here for you.

What they all said....
congrats to your parents. That is a truly amazing thing and I hoped for three same. I made it through 10 years bit the last three have been on egg shells since she moved out a month ago. We have two kids so it’s hard to go no contact with her but like brokenbridges I try to picture her happy with someone else. I have spent so much time wanting her back but now just want her to be happy.
It has been tough but I have had a few close friends go through something like this. They are both remarried and have great lives and families. It’s hard to think about someone else at the moment but I can’t wait to Have a companion again....someone who can’t wait for me to get home and wake up with. I hope it’s my wife but don’t want her to be with me just because I want it.
Stay strong and keep your head up!!! Much different time than 49 years ago(from my understanding) but finding ones happiness has existed since the dawn of time.

Going through the same thing keep your head high and know that its not all your fault. It takes 2 to tango. We will survive and rise again.

Keep your head up we are all here for you! I know the feeling of having low-self esteem and not having a spouse who can fully support you and help you through your struggles. Its not your fault stay strong.

Thanks, everyone. It is easier to manage with the support of others, and I appreciate your words. I know that I will get through it - I have faith, family, and friends to help. I have a wonderful child who, while about to embark on the full journey of adolescence, still loves me and wants to be with me. And now I have you fine people. That does not mean that the time ahead will not be free from pain and struggle, but at least I have a support system to lean on. Happy Friday.

Happy Friday! Hugs