What Stranded Astronauts Can Teach Us About Divorce

Space capsule lands in ocean

This week, the world watched as two stranded astronauts finally returned to Earth. Originally scheduled to be away for just eight days, their journey unexpectedly stretched into nine long months. It was a powerful reminder that life is unpredictable—things don’t always go as planned, and sometimes, we must find new ways to move forward.

The same can be said for divorce.

When couples marry, they embark on a journey filled with hope and expectations. No one stands at the altar imagining that their vows will one day unravel. Yet, as time passes, circumstances change. Life takes unexpected turns, and people grow in ways they never anticipated. Just like the astronauts who suddenly found themselves facing an uncertain path home, divorcing couples must navigate a new reality they never thought they’d encounter.

Divorce is often accompanied by fear, sadness, and uncertainty. The process of untangling lives that were once intertwined can feel overwhelming. Yet, just as those astronauts persevered through the challenges of space, individuals going through divorce can find strength in the journey. They adapt, they problem-solve, and they discover resilience they may not have known they possessed.

For the astronauts, the return to Earth was a beautiful, emotional moment—a symbol of endurance, survival, and a fresh start. For those who have faced divorce, the return to a new, redefined life can hold a similar sense of renewal. It may take time, but brighter days are ahead. New opportunities arise, new relationships form, and a new sense of self emerges.

Life is full of detours and delays. But, as today’s landing showed, no matter how far off course we may feel, there is always a way home. And often, that home looks different than we first imagined—but it can still be beautiful.