“Divorce?” Did I hear you right? You and Dad want a divorce? Mother, answer me.”
Stunned by the announcement, I want to shake my Mother but good.
My parents, Lily and Greg Hudson, had just celebrated 50 years of marriage. What could my Mother possibly mean? Surely she is teasing me and I do not appreciate her sick sense of humor. Not one little bit. Mom and Dad share a deep love for each other. They show it in the many small things they do.
A gentle touch in passing. The light kiss on the cheek. Fixing a favorite dessert. So many actions that say, “I love you.” A shared smile, hands held on their daily walk. They adore each other.
Mom held my hand as she led me to sit next to her on the sofa. “Sherry, we need to stay calm so I can explain this to you.”
How could she show so much delight in this situation?
“You do remember when you discovered you were conceived before we got married, don’t you? I was only 20 years old at the time and you were the result of a ‘slam, bam, thank you mam’ night of pure lust. Your father and I didn’t even know each other well. Just too much party, party.
I gave her my best disgusted look. This was old history. What did it have to do with 50 years of happiness?
“Well,” Mom continued, “when we knew you were expected, your father and I felt a strong responsibility to give you a normal, happy, love-filled childhood. You do have to admit how well we succeeded. We promised each other 50 years together, no more.”
“But Mom,” I wailed, “You and Dad are devoted to each other.”
“No,” my mother replied, “we were devoted only to you.”
With a huge smile, my Mom patted my cheek. “Finally, we can live our own lives and can stop pretending. Just be happy for us. Our 50 years together was our gift to you. It has all been more than worthwhile. You were the joy that kept us together.”
“But Mom, why 50 years? Why not 20 or 25 years?”
Oh silly, and miss our grandchildren and a big five O party. No way. Now let’s get some ice cream and celebrate my new life.”