These women admit why they’re thankful for their exes, because it’s always good to look at the silver lining

It’s the time of year when people stop to give thanks. But when thinking over all the things you have to be thankful for (family, friends, your beloved dog, a truly awesome set of eyebrows…) most people don’t admit that there were good sides to a failed relationship. But some women do admit that they’re thankful for their exes and it’s a nice change of pace. Many of us would rather not think about them at all, no matter what time of year it might be. Because when it comes to being thankful, exes don’t normally rank high on the list — or so you might think.

Actually, there are plenty of people out there who look back on their former partners and significant others with fondness and even a sense of gratitude. Using the Whisper app, people have been anonymously sharing why they’re thankful for their exes — and some of the reasons might make you take a second look at your own past loves. From being grateful for the experience, learning about themselves, or just being thankful that the nightmare is over, it looks like every relationship leaves us with something to appreciate our exes for.

Here are some good ones:

Sometimes it takes courage to walk away from a bad relationship.

Like Oscar Wilde said, ‘To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.’

Anyone with a lying ex has learned this lesson.

Don’t take warning signs lightly.

Self-discovery is well worth a breakup.

Not every part of a relationship with an ex has to be bad.

Some relationships aren’t stopping points; they’re just a pause in your ongoing adventure!

We’ve always said self-sufficiency is a valuable asset

Getting through a difficult experience proves that you can survive, and gives you strength you never imagined.

Because you didn’t want to have to talk to your ex?

Never settle for less than you deserve!

There are few things as liberating as realizing you don’t need someone destructive in your life, and having the power to walk away.

That did not turn out the way we had imagined.

You deserve someone on your level, who supports and helps you as much as you do them.

Sometimes knowing what you don’t want is as important as knowing what you do.

We’re always thankful for dogs.

Remember: money doesn’t buy happiness, manners, or good relationships.

You can still love your ex, just not in the same way you once did.

Few things are as sexy as confidence.

It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

Getting out of a terrible relationship and moving on to a good one is a very good reason to be grateful.

From learning to love ourselves to learning what other loves are really out there, there are tons of reasons to be appreciative of love gone wrong. Of course, sometimes we’re just thankful we never have to see them again — now that’s something to be truly grateful for!