The Civilized and the Not

So, the Gores are separating. No drama. No babies being introduced to their daddies in a hotel room. No flurry of vicious emails and taking of sides. Speculation is that they simply grew apart. Which, I hear can happen once the kids are out of the house. He became more involved in his ecological work and she, the extrovert, became more interested in a settled life. Brings to mind the separation of the Buffets that only really became public knowledge in the most respectful of ways after Mrs. Buffet had passed away.

I'd like to think that all couples could be so thoughtful and mature in making very private decisions public. But, then again, entertainment television and TMZ would go out of business, wouldn't they?

I admit, I'm pretty smug about the security of my own relationship. I honestly cannot foresee the circumstance that would make us split . . . but, isn't that how it usually happens?

I have a good friend going through a separation and pending divorce right now. I know she's heartbroken because she always believed she would be married for life. However, after much trying and counseling and exchanging of letters and talking, it has become apparent that the marriage cannot survive and she remain sane/happy/healthy.

I have to applaud her though; she hasn't been mean or vicious. She hasn't had the revenge boyfriend. She has shown the utmost in consideration and maturity, despite being the injured party.

I don't know if I could be so good if it were me. Which, in itself, is a weird thing to acknowledge.