Marianne Gingrich was having dinner with her mother one evening in 1999. The phone rang, and the call was for her. Her husband, Newt Gingrich, was at the other end of the line and said, "I want a divorce." Marianne Gingrich found the whole thing very difficult to understand. This is because one day, the former Speaker of the House was contemplating divorce, and days later, he was discussing family values in a public political speech.

In the weeks after that phone call, Marianne and Newt Gingrich saw a counselor. During that time, he seemed to waiver about what he wanted to do. The couple discussed an open marriage, but ultimately, their vows collapsed.

Divorce can be a very difficult thing to deal with. It is confusing and emotionally trying. Couples often try to work through issues, but in the end, some marriages do not last. The complications involved in a separation and divorce can be even worse. How do we resolve our financial issues? Who gets the house? How will I support myself? Furthermore, resolutions involving children can be difficult. Many divorces involve custody and visitation disputes over the kids.

As one can see, divorce issues can be burdensome and overwhelming. However, the reality is that it happens to a lot of people--even well-known political families. A divorce will affect the financial, legal and personal aspects of your life. This definitely was the case for Marianne and Newt Gingrich. Therefore, if you are dealing with a separation, you may want to look into your various resolution options.

Source: The Washington Post, "Marianne Gingrich, Newt's ex-wife, says he wanted 'open marriage,'" James V. Grimaldi, Jan. 19, 2012