“I told you every time I asked for your help,” I said. “Every time I snuggled up for a kiss and you were more interested in what was on TV. I told you when I begged for your love and attention, for romance.

“I told you five years ago when I asked you to go to couples therapy with me and you refused because there was NOTHING wrong and you were happy.”

“We can go now,” Zack said hopefully. “Set up the appointment and I’ll come!”

“Of course, now that you see me determined to leave,” I commented. “But you don’t actually care enough to go look for a therapist and set up the appointment yourself.”

“Please, Kelly,” Zack begged. “Please give me a chance to make you happy!”

I stared at him and a deep sadness welled up in my heart. I shook my head. “At any time in the last thirty years, I would have given anything to hear you say those words.

“Now I look at you and all I feel is sadness — and pity. You’ve never bothered to make me happy before Zack, and honestly, I’m not wasting one more day of my life on you.”

The next day, I moved out and found a charming little apartment in Venice Beach, ready to start fresh. I sold my car and began cycling everywhere, even to work.

My children were shocked, especially my oldest daughter, Amy, who told me that their father was heartbroken and seeing a therapist for depression. I felt sorry for him, but for the first time in years, my own happiness took priority.

I started dancing, made new friends, ditched the old, frumpy clothes I had worn to please Zack, and changed my hairstyle. My kids were amazed—they said I looked twenty years younger.

I felt younger, more beautiful, energized, and full of hope. A year later, I met Sam, a kind, thoughtful man who treats me with so much love and attention. He wants to marry me.

I admit, I’m still a little nervous about taking that big step again, but we’ve already set a date for the summer. I couldn’t have found a better man, and I’m finally discovering what real love feels like.

As for Zack, I hear he’s now dating a much younger woman who bosses him around, makes him cater to her every need, and spends his money freely. I guess we all end up where we deserve!

What can we learn from this story?

What we do is just as important as what we don’t do. Zack didn’t cheat, but he also didn’t offer Kelly the love and support she needed.

One of the most important things in a relationship is to LISTEN to what the other person is really saying and to consider their needs and wishes as important as your own — something Zack didn’t do until it was too late.