I went through a divorce in 1999. It was brutal. She told lies about me, and the judge believed her completely. Every time I said something, I was accused of lying. I couldn't afford a lawyer. The judge nick-named me "Mr. Wife Beater," even though I'd never hit her.

My ex lied downward about her income, meaning I had to pay more. She fought for very minimal visitation with my son, meaning I had to pay more. Then, the judge disregarded my hourly rate, as I was working a temp job, and declared my salary to be "based on what I feel you should be making as a white man." It took me six years to start earning that.

Then, she proceeded to take everything. I found out the hard way, it doesn't stop at half. Everything. I was destroyed. It was the first and only time that I've seen my mother cry.

Finally, in the elevator, this lawyer could tell that I was destroyed and handed me his business card. He said, "You can call me next time." I told him there would not be a next time, and he laughed, replying, "There will be a next time. They always come back. They always think it will be different."

I know the alone feeling. I also felt stupid, and had no hope for my future.

Best of luck.