Divorce, a word people do not like to use or talk about. Children all around the world grow up in a world where their parents do not live together. Yes, having two rooms, two houses, and two Christmases may seem awesome to kids whose parents are not divorced. But any child from a divorced family will tell you it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. It’s hard on the holidays when you’re family doesn't celebrate together.

My parents got divorced when I was really young. I barely remember them being together, just packing bags and taking a long trip out to Texas. Growing up was hard when my dad lived in Texas and my mom and I lived in Alabama. 585 miles apart. Phone calls and letters were how my dad and I kept in touch.

Many see the word "divorce" as a negative word and something that should not be discussed. Yes, divorce is not all sunshine and rainbows, but it can also be a positive thing if you really think about it. Here are many things I learned from growing up in a divorced family.

Being independent

I grew up watching my mother work her butt off to make sure I was well taken care. My mother worked two jobs to make ends meet. She made sure I had food to eat, clothes on my back, and a roof over my head. She also let me join band, color guard, and organizations. All of these required required time and money. My mother is my hero, my teacher, I learned so much from her. Thanks, Mom. I love you.

How to cope, manage, and accept change

Change can happen at anytime in your life, sometimes you'll be prepared and sometimes you won't be. It's okay to be emotional, it's natural to feel sad and angry. Everyone has permission to grieve. But after awhile it's time to move on and learn to adapt to the sudden change. Accept the past, and take on the future. Never hide from change, embrace it.

Honestly, it was hard leaving my mama behind, then leaving my dad behind for 6 months at a time. I always prayed and wished that one day my parents would reunite with each other. But, not all wishes and prayers come true, and sometimes it’s for the better.

Divorce affects you emotionally and mentally. As I got older relationships scared me, getting married still scares me. Coming from a broken family, you know how it feels to have someone you love and trust just leave and never come back. Many kids deal with it their whole life.

My mom and dad found their true love and are both happily married. I’m so happy for them and I love thinking about how big my family is. Now I have two wonderful step-parents that I love, a lot.

I’m writing this because I want them to know that as I grew older I finally understand. I understand that their marriage did not work out. They have always wanted the best for me and support me in anything and everything I do.

Although my parents are not together I am still thankful in so many ways.

Love you Mom & Dad.