My Life is Falling Apart
Sarah's story gives us a glimpse into the world of children whose parents are going through a divorce. Her raw emotions and honesty about her struggles show us some of the challenges many young people face in similar situations. We want to express our gratitude to Sarah for her courage in sharing her journey with us. It takes immense bravery to open up about such personal experiences, and we commend her for her strength. Sarah, your strength shines through your words, and we admire your courage in sharing your story. While the road ahead may be difficult, know that you are not alone. There is support and love surrounding you, and brighter days lie ahead. Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your journey with us. Your bravery is an inspiration, and we wish you strength and healing as you continue on your path forward.
Hi, my name is Sarah. I'm 14 years old and I’m from Sydney, Australia. My life has been kinda tough lately. My parents are going through a divorce and it really feels like my whole world is falling apart. I’m writing because I wanted to tell you all about it because it's been weighing on me like a ton of bricks. Also I know there are other people out there who understand what I’m going through.
All of this started a few months ago but I remember it like it was yesterday. My parents called me into the living room and I could tell something serious was going on. Mom's eyes were all red and watery and my dad looked like he hadn't slept in days. They sat down with me on the couch and told me they were getting a divorce. I couldn't believe it, I knew many of my friends parents had gone through the same thing but I didn’t know I would too. I mean sure, they argued sometimes, but I never thought they'd actually split up forever.
Ever since that day… Life just hasn't been the same. Mom and dad are always fighting, and I'm stuck in the middle, trying to keep the peace. They both want me to choose sides, by asking me who I want to live with, but how can I? They're both my parents and I love them both so much. Mom wants me to stay with her in our old house because she says it'll be better for me and that I need some stability during this time. But dad wants me to live with him in his new apartment. He promises me all sorts of things like more freedom and anything I’d want. To be honest I’m feeling like a piece of paper being pulled in opposite directions. It's tearing me apart inside and I don't know what to do. Every night I lie awake in bed, thinking… Am I making the right choice?
It's not only the living arrangements that are keeping me up… Sadly, I look at love very differently now. I used to believe in happily ever afters and fairy tale endings like Disney movies but now I'm not so sure. If my own parents couldn't make it work, what hope is there for anyone else including myself? I see couples holding hands, and as we get closer to Valentines… I can't help but feel a little bi of jealousy. Why do they get to be happy while my family is falling apart? It's not fair and it's made me question whether true love even exists. I know it sounds silly coming from me because I’m older but I used to dream of finding my Prince Charming and living happily ever after, but now it feels like all those dreams are gone.
Sometimes I wonder if I'll ever be able to trust anyone again. If my own parents couldn't make it work, how can I anyone else? It's a scary feeling but it keeps me up at night. But even though there is all the pain and confusion, there's one thing I know for sure. I love my parents, no matter what. They may not be together anymore now but they'll always be my mom and dad. And it feels like my whole world is falling apart, I know that some day I'll find a way to keep moving forward. Because that's what families do. They stick together, even when everything else is falling apart. Just like Dory said in Finding Nemo: just keep swimming, just keep swimming!