Hi Karine.

Thank you so much for reading and writing.

I would never want to make you or anyone else feel tat they are doing something “wrong.” In my mind, there is no wrong or right — there are only things that make us feel good about ourselves, our choices, and how we live.

Most of the older women who responded to the original article, the women referenced in my article, are divorced, widowed or single by choice or chance. Some didn’t choose their path; others did.

In any event, they (men, women and those who identify as they) would absolutely show up for their loved ones. Sometimes with spouses or live-in or live-apart partners. It doesn’t mean that we don’t care for each other. We do, even though our living arrangements may not look traditional.

You’re not doing anything wrong — you are doing what feels right and honest and real for you. And you have much support and respect, not judgment — at least from me. I am sorry if that is what you took away from this article.