Among Friends

[lovesrecess]

Got a Christmas card from my older cousin, who is 70 years old. She wrote a note in the card and said she and her husband of 50 years are getting a divorce. They just went on a cruise last spring to celebrate their 50th anniversary. I am beyond surprised.  I don’t see them very often, but they have always seemed to have a great marriage.  She didn’t elaborate in the card...would you say anything to her about the divorce? They have one daughter but she lives in London. I sent my cousin a Christmas card addressed to her and her husband....I just can’t imagine either of them living on their own.

[Mom2Dogs]

Wow....makes you wonder what happened.  

I'd hate to think of starting over at 70...of course it happens when there is a death but to divorce!  And I would also worry about how to support myself at that age unless they are wealthy and or have great retirements.

[lovesrecess]

I don’t know much about their finances but they have lived in the same upscale neighborhood for most of their marriage. He retired from a insurance company as a VP and she worked as a physical therapist part time but didn’t work very many years. I am wondering if my niece knows what’s going on.

[spent2much]

WOW!

[denisemb]

Astounding to divorce after 50 years together.

[jannabelle1]

Your question is whether you should say anything to your cousin. Having been through a divorce after a number of years of marriage, it was comforting to hear from close friends who showed their support, and checked on me to make sure I was doing okay emotionally. I was also going through a job loss at the same time, so it was difficult for me. Those who helped me most called often to chat or ask me out for lunch or a movie or were just there to listen. The point is to be there for your cousin. Her financial situation as well as what caused the divorce is private until (and unless) she mentions it to you. Few people want to go through a divorce, but most women today are strong, and we can handle setbacks - even at age 70 (which is what I am).

[Reever]

If I had to conjecture I would believe he was caught cheating. I see no reason otherwise to divorce at that age.

[fthunt]

Sounds like one of them is off their Rocker.  (meaning 'nuts')

[Mary Bailey]

Brave

Sometimes marriage is just empty. No fault.

Who knows how many years they have left.  I hope they are happy for the rest of their days.

[Carolm]

I think divorce later in life happens more than we realize.  My brother and sister-in-law were going to get divorced when he was eighty and she in her mid 70's, but she got sick and died, so the divorce was never finalized.  I know several people who have divorced in their 70s.  Sad.  But I guess they have their reasons.