I (like most of America) watched Jon and Kate Plus Eight last night. As I mentioned in my previous blog, I have been a fan of the show for quite some time. It was a poignant episode for sure.
The truth is, despite the success of their show, despite their celebrity status, their trips to exotic locations, the complimentary services and products their family has received, Jon and Kate Gosselin are just two ordinary people. Two people that found themselves in an extraordinary situation.
They tried to make their marriage work despite the obstacles they were facing; providing for their eight children. Unfortunately, they decided to end their 10 year marriage as of yesterday.
I was saddened watching the show. When I watched previous episodes, I thought to myself: if these two people could make their marriage work there was hope for the rest of the couples in America who didn’t have eight children to provide for.
I have to say, I was impressed by Kate’s interviews on this particular episode. She was brutally honest; stating that she was afraid to “do this alone.” “This” meaning raising eight children. And that when she realized that her marriage was over, she “let herself fall apart for one day,” crying her eyes out. But then she resolved “I will always be there for my children. Even if I have to put on a happy face when I’m not feeling happy.”
Kate is a phenomenally strong woman. She is still pushing forward; being there for her children in spite of her marital discord.
As a mother, I have great respect for Kate’s outlook on the situation. There have been many times in my own life, recently, where I have wanted to break down. I’ve thought to myself “how much can one person do?” I have been overwhelmed by the prospect of providing for my son, taking care of myself, taking care of my boyfriend etc. But I know that I must go on. I must be emotionally present for my son. This is where Kate Gosselin is coming from. And I appreciate that.
