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Minor and adult children of gray divorce feel seen and respected when parents honor their boundaries.

What a child experiences during and after a divorce can cause relationship wounds.

A heartfelt apology doesn't always bring reconciliation.

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Gray divorce refers to couples 50 and older ending their marriage. Today, almost 40 percent of U.S. adults divorcing are 50 or older. Some have minor and adult children.

Jerrod and Friede, my therapy dog, sat on the loveseat in my office. Friede snuggled into Jerrod's right side, her upper body glued to the right side of his chest, as her head rested softly against his neck. Jerrod's right arm circled her to pull her closer, and he began.

"I'm so glad you have Friede. She is exceptionally intuitive. Look at how she is snuggled onto literally half of my body. She senses how nervous I am to hear from you what Madeleine's therapist told you after she and Madeleine read my apology letter. Is it good news or bad news?"

"Well, it's both," I said and paused, waiting for Jerrod to absorb my reply.

"Her therapist helped her write a letter of response to you. She said you can have a copy of it if you want. Do you want me to read it to you?"

I read slowly and compassionately, glancing up to check in with him.

"I would not have written this letter except that Dr. Barkley and Mom encouraged me, saying it would help with my healing. Frankly, I'm not sure my healing is........

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