So, on New Years Eve, a bunch of us picked a ‘Themeword’ (credit for the idea goes to Erica Douglas) and mine was pretty clearly: TRANSITION. I saw 2008 as a year of wrapping up things in progress (or things I needed to finally take care of) and moving onto my next phase in life (whatever that may be). It just popped into my head and there it was.
The morning brought the first transition. This was one I didn’t foresee on New Years, but was one that arose nonetheless. Chris Messina and I ended our romantic relationship.
So, what does this particular transition mean? How am I doing with it?
Well, let me tell you, that it did break my heart to see it come to an end, but it is something that we needed to do. Although our intellectual and professional relationship is awesome and we continue to collaborate, we hadn’t been paying much attention to the emotional side for quite sometime. We tried from time to time, but, well, we had SUCH an easy time connecting through our projects and our work and it was a bit of a struggle with the emotional, so we spent way more time over the past 2.5 years connecting the easy way. This sort of neglect takes a toll on a love life and we just didn’t want to continue to hurt one another, so we came to terms with it, hugged and decided to end the romantic part before it could destroy the professional part.
I still love Chris very much…and respect him highly. He means the world to me and I’m proud to call him my partner…in business. I just won’t be calling him my PiC any longer.
I am still a little sad, but there are hopeful times ahead. Citizen Agency remains. I continue writing my book. Citizen Space is still open for all to drop in. Thanks for your continued support. You all rock.
Hi Tara,
Having had the great experience of spending time getting to know you and Chris both professionally and personally over the last year my heart is with you both.
As you said, changes & transitions. You’ve both have been incredible honest & open with your friends & community and it’s inspiring to see you both continuing this approach through these times of changes.
I think is speaks volumes of both of you & what your company speaks for.
Wishes of happy days ahead from Montreal for you both.
Hey,
I just saw this. I had felt that something was different from your twitters but did not know why. Anyway, so sad to hear this.
But so great the way that you have both handled this with sensitivity, gentleness and openness. I wish you all the best.
rashmi
I’ll leave the same comment as I just left for Chris, since it was meant for both of you:
The maturity and clarity with which you’ve approached and handled this situation amazes me, even if I simply observe from afar. You should be both be quite proud of yourselves. Please do remember to leave room to heal.
Hi Tara!
I know I’m seeing you tomorrow night, but thought it appropriate to state here (so I don’t make you process it all with me in person… not that we don’t have to talk about it, but you know what I’m saying) that I’m actually just ‘getting’ that you two are actually split up for real. I had seen a tweet or two that made me wonder, but didn’t know for sure until today.
So, beyond a little shock (which I’m sure you’ve had to deal with only because everyone loves to see a happy couple!) and feeling your pain through such a tough decision… I just want to say that it takes great courage to come to a realization like this within a relationship.
Thank you for sharing yourself and being such an incredible dynamic woman both personally and professionally.
Look forward to toasting your new chapter tomorrow night!
Lots of love
xo
w
I know I’m late to the game hearing about this, but I’m really saddened to hear this.
Glad you will both maintain your professional and friendship relationships.
I’m bummed, but think you’re both fantastic folks that are additive to the industry.
Wow, I only just heard about this. I’m in one really sorry to hear you guys have split up but on the other hand its great you both came to the conclusion before things got very complicated, bitter or even nasty. I wish you both luck and hope to drop into CitizenSpace some time this year. I will also see you Tara in Newcastle in May for thinkingdigital
I just heard the news and am so sorry. Transitions are never easy, but often have a silver lining. Here’s to finding yours soon. You guys are in my thoughts!