When my husband and I got divorced, he moved to another state and we didn't see each other often. But we still kept in touch with each other, and our relationship was pleasant. Years later we got together and I realized two things.

1. I was really glad we had split up. He was a good man but not a good man for me.

2. He was my oldest friend! We had known each other since Jr. High School and he knew me and knew more about me better than any other person walking the planet.

We have remained in touch, calling each other on holidays and birthdays and even our anniversary and I think the reason we have stayed friends is that no matter what we said and did as young married people, we still respected each other as individuals.

Sometimes the person you're with isn't right for you, but that doesn't make them a "bad" person. Shared events and memories are a powerful thing, and there is nothing wrong with maintaining a relationship with shared respect as it's base when you've had years of shared history. While my ex wasn't the husband for me, we still make pretty good friends and I'm glad we both worked to keep that alive.

How do you feel about being friends with your ex?