To the kids of divorce who became adults still stitching the pieces together—this moment is for us. This was our very first family photo. Not from childhood. Not during the “good years.” But on my grandfather’s 99th birthday, in my hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. It took decades to get here.
My parents divorced when I was 3. My sister was only 1. And like so many children of separation, we became experts in emotional translation. Reading the room. Adapting. Faking peace while quietly searching for it.
But this photo? It’s not perfect. It’s not staged. It’s not curated for a holiday card. It’s real.
It’s a photo of healing. Of growth. Of grace doing what only time can help it do.
I recently read an article from Psychology Today about how children of divorced families often grow up with traits like hyper-independence, resilience, and a drive to carve out their own paths—often becoming entrepreneurs. That hit me hard.
Because now I see the truth:
The chaos taught me clarity. The division made me a builder. The instability became the reason I show up—for others and for myself.
This photo is a full-circle moment I never saw coming.
So if you’re someone who’s still healing from your upbringing—or wondering if your story is too complicated to lead—you’re not alone.
Your background isn’t a barrier. It’s your training ground.
