The Man I Became—and Then Met

I was a single parent for decades. After a troubling divorce from a man who washed his hands of his family, I found myself raising my daughter alone. But we were not to be pitied. I embraced single motherhood with open arms and a full heart. Her childhood would be fleeting, and I knew it—so I chose to be present. Fully. Fiercely. I soaked up every moment I could, building a life that was rich in love, laughter, and resilience.

Sure, I might have gone on a date here or there, but I didn’t put myself out there. I wasn’t searching for someone to complete me. I was already whole. My focus was on her—on being the best, most grounded parent I could be.

And then, she grew up. She matured into a beautiful, wise young woman and eventually left for college. Before she did, she gently suggested I venture out into the dating world. I think she was afraid to leave me alone, worried that the quiet might echo too loudly. At first, I resisted. But then I thought—why not? I could stick my toes into the dating pool.

Dating in your 50s is a different game. You know how to cut through the superficial crap that younger people often get tangled in. I was nervous, sure—but I also knew I’d be okay with or without someone. I wasn’t looking for a savior. I was looking for a companion.

And what do you know—I met an incredible man. I had started to wonder if they still made them like this. We both had daughters. We both had stories. And we both had the courage to learn how to let someone in. To treat each other with the kind of care we’d always craved. I used to joke that I’d morphed into the man I was supposed to marry—strong, steady, emotionally available. Turns out, I didn’t have to settle. I just had to wait.

We slowly introduced our daughters to each other, and now, a year and a half in, the four of us are building something intentional and real. We’re not rushing. We’re not performing. We’re defining our little pack on our own terms. And the joy we share—the laughter, the comfort, the ease—is something I never imagined just a few years ago.

It’s amazing what a little gumption and a lot of grace can accomplish.

Why don't you share with us your thoughts on dating in your 50s.