Before our divorce, both Tyler and I were the kind of people who cared a lot about saving face—especially Tyler.

He practically treated his pride like a family heirloom, something to be worshipped three times a day on an altar at home.

But divorce changes things. It breaks down everything—and then gives you a chance to rebuild.

During the implosion of our marriage, we stripped each other of every last shred of dignity.

Oddly enough, ...