Charles Hassell

New York, NY

My 'rents divorced when I was young, barely 3. As a result I only have one memory of them together: me standing between them saying, "stop arguing!" and them laughing and scooping me up. Really.

When I was about 20, I found a file with some old letters between my parents. According to those letters, one of my parents ran away with the other's best friend, then came back, but it was all over a few weeks later. (My folks confirmed that, but didn't say much more).

Growing up, I went back and forth every monday. I would say its pretty rough on a kid, in terms of keeping your life organized (clothing, schoolwork), and for forming steady routines. As a teacher, I now see how important it is for children- especially in their early years- to have a stable home. I certainly hope my children will.