Divorce after Twenty years together Community Group
I want to start something for those of us that were married for a long long time. I think that we face a little different issues than those who were dating for a few years or even married for shorter period of time. Being married for so long we have older children some have grandkids dealing with teenagers and their reaction to the divorice empty nesters dating after 40...

I have a very interfering mother-in-law, and that was part of the problem. She never liked me. She always tried to be his "wife" instead of being his mother. I sympathize with you. However, try not to put your focus on her, because really, it's all about what HE did to you with his treachery.
Find help as soon as you can. Get a lawyer. Don't be afriad to go to a few until you find one you like. Find a therapist ASAP. All of those swirling emotions need a sympathetic outlet. Call on your family and friends. Let them help you. Try to find a divorce support group near you. There is none around here for me, but I have heard others say the support group was invaluable.
I will say that when I couldn't find a support group, I found a church with an active Stephen Ministry. The female lead met with me, and partnered me with a person to help me through the struggle. You don't have to be Christian, or of any particular faith, or to attend the church that they work out of. My Stephen Minister is invaluable to me because she is compassionate and allows me to just talk when I need to. Sometimes I felt/ feel that I am overusing my family and friends. She is always there for me- no judgments.
I hope you find comfort and peace again soon. It does take a while. Longer than you'd like. But I hope you at least feel you can breathe again.
I smell rat here, and I agree that there is probably someone else in this picture. If not another woman, then your MIL is leading him.
As has already been said, if it's possible, find a therapist you can work with and see a legal adviser to find out what your rights are and how to prepare for what looks like it's going to be a difficult divorce with the MIL at the helm. Read as much as you can get your hands on. Knowledge is power. Fight them for everything you deserve.
sending love and big hugs
kamary
This should motivate you to get that therapist and a pitbull Atty. If he gives you a rash of trouble you sic the pitbull Atty on him. One thing I've learned is life is not fair and sometimes you have to get proactive to take care of yourself.
He is a despicable coward and she is welcome to him. They are fortunate, for now, to have each other and tell each other how wonderful they are.
Have no doubts this is not your fault - at all.
It will be hard for a while to find comfort and ease but stick with. Time heals all wounds and wounds all heals.
Be very kind to yourself, you deserve it after this. Do things deliberately to make yourself happy.
Take care
I felt like I died. The person I was died and I was left with just a shell with nothing inside. I got so bad I was diagnosed with PTSD, threatened with hospitalization and have been on meds since then. I am trying to rebuild myself and it is hard.
YOU are not at fault. You did everything you could to make a happy life for him. He is blaming you just like my husband did me, and just like me you believe him. He is lying! Please don't believe him. He is putting all the blame on you so he can feel justified.....not take any responsibility for his actions. That extra little stab about children was a deliberate low blow and totally uncalled for. It was meant to make you hate yourself and feel guilty. Don't believe him. Don't allow him to tear you down and hurt you.
Please get that attorney now. And the therapist. Don't wait.
You are a good person. I am so sorry you are going through this.
Get they to a lawyer...now! Go no contact. Dont do or sign anything until you have one. If your H wants to leave...let him...but he can pay the lease on the appt. and you move in while you finish school...your life should not have to change right now...not until a legal financial agreement has been reached. He cant just leave you destitute. If he wants a new life...fine...but he still has to pay for the old one. Get angry and let the anger motivate you to protect yourself. This is a business deal that will effect the rest of your life... you can not do this yourself..Big Hugs..Kathy
A man cannot marry when he is still tied to his mom's apron strings. He was not ready to marry. He never cut the strings and that mean, vindictive, evil woman is still in control. She's jealous.
Take back your life. Get that attorney and take control. It was never meant to be. You will be surprised by how much lighter you will feel when you unburden yourself from both him and his mother.