The Evolution Of My Story

"...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things..." Ali, I really admire the intentionality with which you have approached this part of your story. From your first post to this post, it is so apparent that you are making daily choices with the intent to honor your history, and to remain positive moving forward. I know that it is not easy. I know that there is an ebb and a flow. I know that you can so do this. And most importantly, I know that Simon and Anna will rise up and call you blessed. Please know that we continue to keep your family in prayer.

What an honest, yet heart breaking post. You have such incredible strengths that I marvel at every day. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family as you deal with this change in your life.

We read your blog every day and feel as if we know you and yours, even though we know in our minds we don't. So, yes, we noticed Chris was absent and after your comments earlier this year, I sort of assumed that's what was going on, but the most beautiful thing about this is the absolutely wonderful life you have with your children. Obviously as hard as a divorce can be, you can have a wonderful life during and after it and you're off to a grand start! Your children look happy, and your lives are full. Your lives will just be different now.
Thanks for sharing - we wondered because we care but we also respect your privacy.

Forty years ago I went through a separation and divorce too. We had one child. The day my husband moved out we agreed to never say anything bad about each other in front of or to our daughter. It was not easy but we both abided by that one promise. When my daughter turned 18 she asked me what caused our divorce. She had never heard either of us say anything bad about the other one. I remarried as did her father and today we all celebrate her son's birthday together - my ex husband, his wife and children, my ex in laws, my husband, our child and grandchildren. I feel proud and grateful we were able to get past our problems and still give our child a solid foundation to grow on. It's not easy but it's doable and so worth it. Your life is very public and your children seem to be doing fine, so take pride in how you are handling this and continue living in joy.

Ali - Thanks for your honesty. My 24 year marriage ended a few years ago and I can tell you that it is entirely possible to navigate your way through this life change with dignity and grace. My ex-husband and I decided that we walked into our relationship holding hands and that we would walk out of it the same way. If you set a clear intention, you'll be able to do it and your kids will benefit by seeing the mature, loving way that their parents negotiated conflict.

There will be LIGHT at the end of this. Be brave. My thoughts are with you.

I, too, wondered about this...and from the distance of following you online.... I send good wishes, knowing that this is a difficult time, painful and challenging. I honor your courage in sharing your life -- with its realities and vulnerabilities, the good and the bad.
I hope that you are bolstered by your resources -- family, friends, colleagues, -- and acquaintances, like me/us here!

Been there. It is not easy and it is still difficult 16 years later. But it does get better. Praying for you all.

Dear Ali,

I couldn't sleep last night thinking of you, Simon and Anna, and I don't even know you except through your blog. I'm so very sorry you are going through this heartbreak. I love reading your blog, especially because my son is on the autism spectrum and the way you write about him (and Anna) inspires me and gives me hope. Keep celebrating what there is to celebrate in life and grieving what there is to grieve and telling your story. I and so many others are grateful for your wonderful example.

Ali, my heart is heavy for you and your family. Know that you have SO MANY friends out here in the world that will fully support you and be here for you. You have such an amazing, positive energy about you, and you are an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your life (in all its ups and downs) with us. Internet hugs for you Simon and Anna.

I went through the same thing about a year and a half ago. Totally out of the blue, blindsided, devastated. It gets better - I promise. There are ups and downs, but you will survive it.

Love your work and your blog/site.
Sending support from South Jersey.... - K

Ali, you are an amazing, courageous woman. Wishing you and your family peace this holiday season and in the new year. Thank you for your openness and willingness to share with all of us. You truly are an inspiration.

Sending love and light for this holiday in what must be a particularly complicated season of life. I rarely comment but I am certain from what I read here regularly that you will handle this with grace and respect for your children. But I'm also sure it's not at all easy. xo

I've said it so many times before, but it bears repeating...you are such an inspiration to me (and to so many others.)

My heart hurts for you, please know you are in my thoughts.

Your honesty and courage to share is always refreshing. I wish you a peaceful new year filled with new opportunities. Keeping you and your family in my prayers.

You are truly an amazing woman. I wish you all peace and strength. Hugs

There is so much in this life, our short walk here that we don't understand - but it has helped me tremendously to know that He has a plan and above where he weaves this beautiful perfect tapestry, knitting threads of us all together IT IS PERFECT and beautiful even tho down here we look up in question and wonder at all the knots, strings and mess that appears on the under side of that tapestry. We are women, we are enough ....softly roaring ;-)

Praying for you and your sweet kids at this difficult time.

i'm so incredibly sorry
my heart is broken for you
peace peace peace be with you
i'm praying for you
sending you hugs

Ali, my heart and prayers are with you. May God surround you and your family with His presence, grace and peace that passes all understanding. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and journey with us even though you are going through this difficult time. You are much loved and appreciated. x

Praying the Lord will bless you with His comfort, strength, and peace. With much love and hugs to you and your little angels.

This is one of many bumps in the road that some must endure. You are loved by your community. You are an inspiration. This chapter is closing, you have many more chapters before you. Wishing happiness and peace for you and your family this holiday season.

This makes me so sad. I admire your strong words and positive outlook. Peace and goodness to you in the New Year.

I would just like to echo what other readers have expressed. You are strong, courageous and filled with light. It will shine and be strong through the clouds....Keep your face to the sun. Wishing you strength, peace and fulfillment.

Merry Christmas and many prayers of a wonderful beginning to the new chapter of your life. I have always enjoyed your work, especially how you communicated the joys of everyday life. So Thank You for inspiring me and I hope to follow your successes for years to come.

Ali, always remember that your life is filled with family and friends who love you, along with many, many people whom you don't even know, from around the world, who also care about you.

Thank you for sharing your life and your talents with us.