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Amicable Divorce: Fostering Hope and Faith

By Sharena Sigmon for Rainbows for All Children

January 25, 2024

The aftermath of a divorce is a journey of self-reconstruction and self-discovery, often accompanied by feelings of grief and loss. Building a family necessitates hope and faith, but these sentiments can crumble when relationships fall apart. Divorce is a multifaceted process that entails unraveling the connection between two individuals with their own emotional, mental, and physical requirements. It signifies that the desires of each person no longer harmonize, leading to a sometimes difficult and protracted journey of separation.

When children are involved, divorce often becomes even more complicated. They experience their own grief and struggle to adapt to a new normal in their routines. This can create tension and fear about what the future holds, not only for the divorcing couple but also for their children. The comfort they once relied on as a family becomes something they can no longer depend on.

However, it’s important to remember that there are multiple perspectives when it comes to divorce. Experiencing divorce doesn’t always have to be filled with guilt, shame, or loss. Even in difficult situations, there are ways to approach divorce amicably and find a resolution that benefits everyone involved.

What does an amicable divorce entail? Divorcing amicably means both parties reach a mutual agreement on the divorce terms and work together to achieve a positive and less stressful outcome. It involves consciously approaching the process with knowledge and goals while acknowledging that emotions may still exist. Adopting a rational and less stressful approach focuses on finding common ground and determining how to move forward constructively.

Here are a few suggestions to help you navigate the process of divorcing amicably:

• Set clear boundaries during and after the divorce proceedings. Law firms like Beermann, LLP, home to our most recent podcast guest Beth McCormack, can give you family forward counsel on how to navigate your divorce.
• Communicate your needs effectively and strive for peaceful interactions, especially in front of your children.
• Take the time to actively listen and respect your ex-partner’s perspective.
• Be willing to compromise when necessary. Remember, it’s about finding a fair resolution for both parties.
• Always prioritize the needs of children and keep them at the forefront of your mind. Cook County Circuit Court offers “Children and Teens Speak,” a program created by Rainbows. To learn more about bringing this incredible program to your circuit court, email stephanie.garrity@rainbows.org.
• Don’t lose sight of your end goal and maintain an optimistic attitude along the way.
• If necessary, consider hiring a mediator, a third-party, who can assist in navigating the process, making it smoother and fostering a more harmonious outcome. The Amicable Divorce Network is a great place to find attorneys, mediators, and other resources in your area.

Even though divorce marks the conclusion of a partnership, it doesn’t signify the demise of hope and faith in nurturing the family’s needs. Instead, it paves the way for transitioning into an amicable relationship that will shape a positive future definition of family.