This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
Published on June 29, 2019, by Joan Thatiah, a writer who reflects on a personal encounter with a woman who dated her father 50 years ago.
She had waited for five decades for him to die, hoping to claim a share of his estate. The encounter left Joan feeling hurt, angry, and disbelieving that the woman had not moved on from her ex.
Joan's experience sparked a broader reflection on how society focuses on relationship beginnings and neglects the importance of how relationships end. This imbalance contributes to women holding onto past relationships, and in some cases, resorting to violence when they feel owed something.
Joan argues that break-ups are not relationship failures, but rather a natural end to a relationship. She suggests that women should focus on moving on and learning from past relationships, rather than dwelling on the past.
Joan also emphasizes the importance of tying up loose ends after a break-up, including not engaging in gossip or 'warning' other women about an ex's behavior. She encourages women to focus on their own healing and growth, rather than seeking closure through others.
