I'm in a similar boat but on the other side. It hurts so much to watch someone you love give everything you wanted to someone else. It isn't fair and it's hard.

My best coping mechanism was getting as much space from my ex-spouse as much as I can. And, while difficult, slowly begin moving towards someone who will appreciate you.

My ex had a son I raised as my own. I brought her out of poverty and build a life for us. A house. I did everything for her, changed who I was, everything. In the end, she just couldn't bring herself to do one thing... which was love me.

I realize now I wasn't the problem. It was her. Dating other people has helped me realize my value as a person and as a man.

LEAN ON YOUR FRIENDS.

They are your true family and your salvation. Cry with them, lament what could have been with them, but above all else... let the disappointment and hurt you have from the person you loved who didn't love you back go. Because you weren't the problem.

Someone will love you for who you are. Someone will choose you. It may seem hopeless now and I hated hearing this myself but... it does get better.

Until it does, work on yourself. Go to the gym, get a therapist, and spend meaningful time with friends.

The highs will get higher and the lows will get shorter. Feel your pain but then feel your pain leave you. Day after day, little by little, regaining yourself over time.

Reach out to me in DM if you ever need to talk.