None of my kids are married, but three of them are in relationships that would rival some marriages in longevity. Sadly, two of these relationships appear to be disintegrating before my very eyes. I'm a hope junkie, so I never like to think anything is un-salvageable. For me to shed my denial, it has to be pretty bad, and it is.

As a mom, I want to give good advice. After all, Hubby and I have pulled through some pretty tough scrapes. Large doses of forgiveness and acceptance have made it possible for us to stay together this long. It helped that we both wanted it more than anything else. However, on this, I think it best to hold back on being too opinionated, trusting them to know what is possible and what isn't.

The saddest part is that I've grown close to these 'significant others'. One of them calls me 'mom'. It's not just a breakup for my kids. I have an emotional investment, too. I had high hopes, too. I watch, helplessly, even painfully. I cringe at the thought of all the emotional fallout that will ensue on all sides.

Since there are financial entanglements as well, it's hard to see them face the difficult adjustments in living and work arrangements that will have to be made. It's just a sad, sad thing all the way around. Is it for the better? I don't know. Maybe, maybe not. It doesn't matter. It is what it is. I just wish it wasn't. I wanted the 'happily ever after' ending.