There’s an often used quote from F. Scott Fitzgerald, “The rich are different from you and me.” In answer, Hemingway reportedly said, “Yes, they have more money!” It’s true the rich do have more money, and they may be different, but they are still faced with many of the same issues we are when it comes to divorce. A few of them may even have some good ideas about how to stay friends with your ex after the divorce.
Famous Friendly Exes
Sara Ferguson and England’s Prince Andrew seem to have perfected friendship after divorce. Divorced for over 22 years, this celebrity couple has managed to stay good friends. They’re often seen dining, traveling and attending family events together. The reason---they both wanted to give their two daughters a stable and secure family life, and a good friendship was the best way to support that.
Actress Gwyneth Paltrow’s announcement of her divorce as “conscious uncoupling” from rock star Chris Martin, evoked more than a few snickers, but also some thoughtful consideration. Behind the silly sounding phrase, she really had a good idea. Through “conscious uncoupling” she meant to circumvent the negativity of a divorce and go directly to being friends. Paltrow explained, “We’re family, that’s it. We can pretend we’re not and hate each other…or try to reinvent this for ourselves.”
Entertainers Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony decided after their 10-year marriage ended to continue to work together. They released a single together and ended a performance they did at the 2016 Latin Grammy Awards with a kiss. Lopez said working together repaired parts of their relationship that had been damaged from their marriage and after the divorce, and made them friends again.
The Why
As long as the marriage did not involve abuse or addiction, a friendly divorce can be achieved by many couples. Though you may not have children, you probably have mutual friends and relatives that you’ve shared birthdays, holidays and family get-togethers with. You may have developed close and caring relationships that you want to maintain. If you expect to see your mutual friends and family members, it’s far better to keep a friendly relationship with your ex. No one wants to be around bickering ex-spouses. And, who knows---like Lopez and Anthony you may find that the friendships and activities you enjoyed as a couple, you can now enjoy as friends.
The How
If you and your ex or soon-to-be ex, need help in working out a friendly post-divorce relationship, mediation can help. A professional mediator will listen to both sides, keep the conversation non-confrontational, help you to remember what drew you together in the first place, and guide you to a friendly co-parenting or post-divorce relationship. Complete our online request for a free online evaluation, or to receive a free 30-minute consultation visit us a www.afairway.com or call 760-227-5090 / 619-702-9174.
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