True Talk for Tender Times How to Find (and Be) a Post-Divorce Friend
There are three keys to successfully persevering through the emotional strains of a divorce: • The courage to progress • The strength to overcome • The knowledge that you are not alone Concerning the last point, here are some things to consider when seeking support during a divorce or separation, or when you want to help a friend or loved one through theirs. SAFE SPACES TO UNBOTTLE BURDENS Even when it occurs under the most amicable circumstances, a separation or divorce can still be a highly emotional experience. In these situations, bottling your feelings is one of the worst things you can do for your peace of mind and physical well-being. When the strain and stress build up, it’s not a question of when you’ll open up, but instead to whom . If you don’t have a therapist, your attorney may be able to recommend one for you. If you’d
prefer to share your feelings with a friend or family member, never be afraid to be the one to reach out first. With everyday lives so demanding, even the most compassionate and supportive people in your lives may need you to nudge them for their time and not wait for them to offer comfort or perspectives. Perhaps most importantly, be mindful of how much you lean on your children for support, even if they’re of adult age. Our kids should never be our ad-hoc therapists, especially as they may wish to remain neutral as they process the split. STRONGER FRIENDSHIPS IN FRAGILE MOMENTS You know your closest friends better than anyone, but they may be difficult to read when they’re experiencing a divorce. Sometimes, leading conversations by asking them how they’re feeling and if there’s anything they’d like to talk about will be enough to break the
ice when they seem reluctant to engage. No matter how you get them to share, remember that your presence and ears are often more valuable to them than your unsolicited advice. Sometimes, allowing those we care about to simply vent is the best gift we can give them.
TAKE A BREAK
Barbecue Chicken French Bread Pizza
Ingredients • 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces • 1 tsp Lawry’s Seasoned Salt • Fresh ground pepper, to taste • 1/4 cup plus 3 tbsp barbecue sauce, divided
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce • 1 loaf French bread
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Line baking sheet with foil. 2. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sauté chicken with seasoned salt and pepper. 3. Reduce heat to medium and add 3 tbsp barbecue sauce. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, remove skillet from heat, and set aside. 4. In a small bowl, combine remaining barbecue sauce and marinara sauce. 5. Cut French bread in half and place on prepared baking sheet. Coat with the sauce mixture, top with chicken and red onions, then add shredded cheeses. 6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted. 7. Remove from oven and top with chopped cilantro. Allow to sit for about 5 minutes before serving!
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