Two's Company And Three's….OK?

How would you feel about your ex living right next door to you and your new spouse? This couple not only dealt with it, they embraced it. The fact that they all get along so well got me to thinking.

I know two different divorced couples who ended up going on to become spectacular friends with their ex's new partner. One of my friends had just about the most contentious divorce on the planet, and she hated her husband's new wife with a vengeance. A few years later, and they're all best friends, babysitting each other's kids and sharing family gatherings. My other friend used to get phone calls from the new spouse, anytime she and the ex got into a fight - the new wife wanted advice! Can you imagine?

Part of me recoils at the thought of ever being buddy-buddy with Peter's girlfriend. Yet, at the same time, it stands to reason that she and I would probably get along if the circumstances were not what they are. She's not a polar opposite of me at all. And some of the qualities I have that attracted Peter could very well be qualities we share. We'd only be hurting the kids if we didn't try to get along. And if we're getting along, how much further is it to being friendly?

Right now, "friendly" looks a loooong way away. But with time, and distance, and a focus on my new life instead of the old one, perhaps there's room there to grow. Food for thought, but right now, it's a bit unpalatable.

Do you get along with your ex's current partner? Does your ex get along with yours? If not, can you ever imagine that happening?

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