You Broke Up for a Reason
Ah, November. It’s that wonderful time of year again where we all pack our suitcases to travel thousands of miles to eat an ungodly amount of carbohydrates with family. Don’t you just love Thanksgiving?
And as is often the case, somewhere in between challenging cousins to a Scrabble tournament and making triple-decker leftover turkey sandwiches, it happens—you unexpectedly reconnect with an ex. Now I’m not from Arkansas so by “reconnect” I don’t mean you rekindle a crush on cousin Bobby. I’m talking about the hometown flame you dated briefly in high school who, coincidentally, is also home for the holidays. Maybe you bump into one another on a cranberry sauce run at the local grocery store or perhaps you see Mr. X or Ms. Y while taking out the garbage.
However it happens, let me warn you now: he/she will look amazing. You’ll probably swoon a bit. I mean, hell you’re lonely in the big city and November is so, so cold.
But don’t be fooled. As you return to the place of your youth, remember one crucial truth: exes are exes for a reason. Like a mantra or talisman that will guide your way, meditate on this advice. Eat it for breakfast instead of Wheaties. Chew on it like Trident. For the love of all that’s holy, remember that you and Mr/Mrs. Wrong broke up for a reason.
It’s imperative that you (and I as well) heed this advice, because when exes re-enter our lives it’s easy to forget the ugliness we experienced when the relationship was in full bloom. Blinded by present loneliness and with senses dulled by the glow of nostalgia, it’s easy to think maybe this time it will be different. Maybe a festive fling with a little smooching won’t hurt. But I guarantee you it will. If nothing else, delving into the past for a 3-day romp with an ex will reopen old wounds you’ve worked so hard to heal.
This holiday season, the only leftovers you want should involve stuffing and candied yams. Don’t settle for less. You deserve better. He or she is out there still. In the meantime, treat yourself to another slice of pie.
Email us at ikisseddatinghello@gmail.com or share your thoughts below in the comments. Is there ever hope for reconciling with an ex? Am I being too cautious?
-CHANEL
