The best breakup ever (and why)

I've been divorced and single momming for more than 10 years.

As happy as I am now, the dad break up was a bitch. So were a bunch of the splits that preceded and followed. I would beat myself up for making another "bad" choice. I would blame the dude for [shortfall goes here].

After a time, I would reactivate whichever online dating site I hated the least at the moment. And try again.

After the second or third date, the force-fitting would begin. I'm a social animal and I like having a companion for [sporty word goes here]. I prefer to share that nice bottle of wine.

Things could drag on for a year. Or more. In my 20s and early 30s, cohabitation or marriage might ensue, and then need to be undone.

Now in my late 50s, I am more aware of the emotional toll. I try not to squander my precious surplus.

So this most recent parting was the easiest of all. 

By recognizing my choice as something other than failure, it came earlier and with more grace.

But something else was different too: This dude had also been doing the work. 

So he, too, could see that our six weeks together was a lesson and a gift.

And that now it's time to let go.