Divorce in European Nations

I am, admittedly, American. Therefore, my views on Divorce (big D) are based on my observations of other Americans and the American institutions of marriage and divorce.

On my recent trip to France, Scotland, Italy and Spain, I didn't have the opportunity to observe couples tackling the arduous project of dismantling "couple-hood" and marriage. However, I did have the opportunity to witness something that made these European nations immediately distinct from America. That something different just happens to be the rasion d'etre for MyDivorceShower.com (tm), and the necessary component in surviving a divorce. That something is Community.

On my travels, I was amazed by the Plazas, Piazzales, Parks, and open air meeting places. These places were all bustling with activity. People weren't in their homes, they were out with friends, on the steps of the Sacre Coeur in Montmarte, the Spanish Steps in Rome, Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, Rialto Park in Madrid and Saint Mark's Square in Venice. It wasn't that a few random people were hanging out, it was that these places (no matter what time of day or night) were packed with groups of friends.

I talked to a friend, born and raised in Madrid, about this phenomenon. She explained that the sense of community is very different in these European countries, but also the homes and apartments tend to be smaller (less toasters maybe :-) and hence people enjoying gathering in larger groups in public squares. This obvious difference of creating a space for community in our lives was astounding to me.

As it relates to the topic of divorce, I believe that a sense of community and cultivating friendships is the essential ingredient to overcoming a divorce or any loss. That is why I believe divorce showers are a great idea, to bring a community together to help someone who is going through a difficult time. Too bad we can't have them in the streets!

I'd love to hear more about community from anyone!