I never imagined I’d be thankful for my parents’ divorce, but life surprises you. I’m Iva, 25 years old, and what I found in my mom’s new home changed my perspective on true love.

Growing up, our house was filled with the smell of oil paints. My mom, Florence, painted beautifully, but my dad, Benjamin, only saw it as a mess. Their arguments grew worse over the years, and they eventually divorced when I was fourteen.

Mom moved into a tiny apartment, and I spent weekends with her. Though the space was small, she filled it with possibilities and the sound of her humming returned. Dad remarried quickly, but his new wife was nothing like Mom.

Years passed, and one day, Dad told me Mom was getting married again. Nervous, I visited her new home, but what I found was incredible. Mom’s new husband, John, had created a gallery for her artwork. Her paintings, once stifled, were now beautifully displayed. John told me, “Your mom’s talent is extraordinary,” and it was clear he truly loved her.

As I stood in that room filled with her art, I realized Mom had found her true love—a love that nurtured her creativity and made her flourish. Finally, she was truly happy, and so was I.