Woman advised to prioritize boundaries over ex-husband friendship

A woman writes to R. Eric Thomas, asking for advice about her ex-husband. They divorced nearly ten years ago after he had an affair while she was a new mother. They share an 11-year-old daughter. The ex-husband married the woman he cheated with, and they treat her poorly. Family and strangers pressure her to be friends with him, which she finds hurtful. She wonders why she should mend the relationship when he hasn't apologized for his actions. Eric tells her she is not obligated to be friends with her ex-husband. She can be polite, especially for co-parenting, but true friendship needs mutual respect. He notes that people often form opinions about how others should live without knowing their real situations. He encourages her to focus on what is best for her and her daughter. Setting healthy boundaries is important. He reassures her that the opinions of those who genuinely care about her matter more than those who judge. It's essential to prioritize her feelings and well-being as she moves forward.