On Separation and Migration

Aside from handing back a ton of failing essays in my life, I’ve never had to deliver much bad news.  When parents decide to separate, having to tell your kids that their lives are about to be turned upside down and inside out, is terrifying.  You seek advice, you strategize about when to do it, what to say, what not to say, and try to imagine how such big news will possibly land in little lives.  All the while knowing, of course, it’s about something that you want for yourself, at least more than you don’t, that’s pointing you to the pain you’re prepared to inflict.