My husband filed for divorce and moved on to someone else when I revealed that I had a terrible illness, but a few months later, something unexpected occurred.
I had a fantastic job, a family, and a loving husband, so I was pleased. I believed that happiness and a promising future were in store for us. But my entire world fell apart one day. In a cool, collected voice, the doctor announced the diagnosis: lung cancer.
It sounded like a death sentence to a young woman who still had her entire life ahead of her. However, I made an effort to accept and deal with it. With my husband by my side, I believed I could overcome it. He assured me that he loved me and would be there for me at my worst moments.
He held my hand, consoled me, and brought flowers home over the first few months. I spend my life believing in him.
But with time, a change occurred. I became aware that he was slipping away: he was home less and less, avoided talks, and frequently stayed late at work. And once, I was left to deal with my suffering alone. Not everyone can manage a life like this, so I didn’t blame him. I simply continued to battle for us both.
Then I discovered that he was seeing someone else. That, too, I accepted. I really couldn’t give him anything, after all.
The worst, however, came next. According to the doctors, I required surgery. My final opportunity. However, there was a serious possibility that I might not wake up.
My husband entered the pre-op room while I was lying there. He was holding some documents.
“We must have a conversation,” he replied icily.
I made an effort to grin. — This can wait. — I shouldn’t worry, the doctor advised.
— No. Now I must tell it. I’ve had enough of waiting.
— All right, I hear you.
– The divorce documents are here.
I stared at him in shock.
— Really? Is there any way you couldn’t wait till after the surgery?
— No. I’ve had enough of waiting. You will sign the documents after I have read them to you.
I sobbed as he read. I cried because of betrayal, not because I was sick or afraid of dying. He continued reading as like I didn’t exist, oblivious to my tears. I signed the papers with shaking hands. Without without saying good-bye, he turned and walked away.
However, the adage that you must take responsibility for everything in life is accurate. A few months later, I unexpectedly ran into my ex-husband once more, and then the unthinkable occurred
The procedure went well. I made it through. I gradually started to get well; my strength and hair both returned. Without a spouse, without love, but with hope, I discovered how to live once more.
Months went by. Before there came a knock on the door one evening, I had stopped thinking about him. There was a man in a wheelchair on the doorstep. He was the one.
As it happened, he had been in an accident. He had left me, and his mistress had left him. He pleaded for forgiveness and acceptance. His eyes were filled with anguish and despair, and his voice wavered.
I just stood there and stared at him. My heart was peaceful and tranquil. I was at a loss for words.
The adage “life is a boomerang” is accurate.
