In the very long ago, when I was single and dating, I had a number of relationships that didn't work out for one reason or another. When I got dumped I was hurt and miserable; when I was the one terminating the relationship I felt guilty and miserable. In the fog of that misery, it was easy to say "So and so is really a rotten person". However, there was nothing wrong with either me or any of these fine women; it just didn't work. Now, in my maturity and with a long, happy marriage under my belt I realize there is simply no way to gracefully end a significant relationship. It is going to be ugly no matter what. It is not unusual that when I acquire a new patient who has been in the community for some time and has been seen elsewhere that many express a deep concern to not hurt the feelings of the previous provider. Just as I feel that life is too short to stay in any relationship that is truly unpleasant, I do also feel that it is best to remember the part that neither party has to be guilty of anything. It just didn't work. Let us wish each other a long and happy life.
