Opinion: Sometimes it’s fine to end a mostly good marriage
The case for separating.
From The Times
December 29, 2025

The author Cathi Hanauer, a co-founder of the Modern Love column, makes the case for separating after a long and loving marriage.

A black-and-white image of a person’s head looking out to sea while holding up a mirror that hides the face but reflects the water and landscape beyond it.

Julia Forrest

Read her guest essay for Opinion.

Get expert analysis of the news and a guide to the big ideas shaping the world.

Sign up for the Opinion Today newsletter

Get expert analysis of the news and a guide to the big ideas shaping the world every weekday morning.

Get it in your inbox

If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance.

You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times.

To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings.

Subscribe to The Times

Connect with us on:

facebookxinstagramwhatsapp

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

LiveIntent LogoAdChoices Logo

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018