Divorce can really bring out the worst in people. In some cases, it brings out the worst in the bystanders to the marriage, not just the former spouses themselves.  I was dismayed to learn that Camilla Parker Bowles decided not to attend a memorial service for Princess Diana, bowing to the threats of rabid Diana fans that she would be pelted with eggs if she attended. Diana’s sons had asked Camilla to be there, but for fear that her attendance would turn the celebration of Diana’s life into some kind of sideshow, she decided it best if she not pay her respects.

Now don’t get me wrong! I know that Camilla played an instrumental role in the breakup of Prince Charles and Diana and adultery in a marriage is a bitter pill.  But utlimately I think it’s important everyone put the past in the past, and move forward in a constructive way. What’s in the best interests of the children should always be a guiding priority. In this case, the wishes of Princes Harry and William were overturned by a lingering angry mob of folks as a way of supporting the memory of their mother. Shouldn’t Diana’s own sons be in the best position to make that call as to how they’d like their own mother to be honored?

For more on this story, check out a recent column in Canada’s national newspaper, The Globe and Mail, where I share more of my views on divorce etiquette.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20070830.LGENEXNEW30/EmailTPStory/