The Golden Divorce

Why am I not surprised?

First, a big apology to my readers.

My “real job” has kept me busy most of the first quarter. If you have been an avid reader of this series, I’m sorry I went missing. However, I have kept up with my podcast and hope that’s fueled your need for some regular “Nancy Snark.”

But what better reason to break my silence than today’s very public announcement of Gerry and Theresa’s split?

Of course, I’m not the least bit shocked.

Marrying someone on network TV after you’ve only known them for a few weeks is probably not a great idea.

And I always suspected that Gerry was a bit of a fame whore, and the way Theresa clung to his arm like a barnacle disturbed me from the get.

But, on the bright side, they’ll have a lifetime of social media fame, with random strangers tracking their post-divorce moves and new lovers.

I anticipate lots of tears and many pictures of Gerry on red carpets with a range of hot chicks.

What lessons can we learn from all this?

• People >50, like their younger counterparts, can be sucked in by romantic fairytales because we still want to believe in true love.

• Marriage (contrived or not) is hard work. As we age, even more compromises may be necessary. (The good news is that we can change at any age if we want to.)

• Fame is a tricky beast.

• Get a prenup.

And now, I’ll return to thinking about my own relationship life (which is complicated and confusing at the moment).

I discovered last night that Patti Stanger is back with a new matchmaking show. She was quoted as saying, “Don’t give up. Don’t give up — love is always around the corner.”

America wants to believe that.

But lots of things may be around the corner. Keep your eyes open and know where you’re going before getting hit by a speeding car.

Even 1950s classic autos can be dangerous!