Westend61/Getty Images hide caption Is it ever a good idea to stay friends with an ex? Last month, Life Kit asked our audience this question as part of a story and podcast episode on the topic . If you share kids or pets, it might make sense, say our relationship experts. But steer clear if you were in an abusive relationship or still have feelings for the other person.
Dozens of listeners wrote to us with their thoughts on the subject. Their stories illustrate the wide range of possibilities that can come when a romance ends. Some said their ex was their best friend.
Some said they had to stay cordial for practical purposes. Others said they realized ..
. they didn't want to be friends at all! These responses have been edited for length and clarity. My ex and I are not only good friends, but we still live together under the same roof and co-parent our 13-year-old son.
When we got divorced in 2015, we decided to stay in the same house together. Housing is expensive in California. We'd each take a huge financial hit if we had to sell our home and find our own places to live.
We also didn't want to split time with our son, who was 5 years old at the time. With this arrangement, we could co-parent more effectively and see our son every day. We worked out a custody agreement that clearly outlined when each of us would be responsible for our son and his care.
Now, almost 9 years later, my ex and I are very close. But no, we're not getting back together. Yes, dating has been hard.
W.