Elin Woods ditches wedding ring, freedom ring, divorce next?

Reports in The Sun and other media outlets show that Elin Woods has ditched her wedding ring, at least for the time being. Under normal circumstances, a wife going ring-less could mean several things, but Tiger and his (estranged?) wife aren’t going through normal circumstances. With 12-15 mistresses falling out of that unfortunate tree hitting accident, the conspicuous absence of a ring could signify divorce. If so, only Elin can determine if it’s time to buy a freedom ring instead.

The concept is simple. Once a marriage is over, so too is the symbolic and sentimental value of a wedding set. One suggestion is to ritualize the transition from married to single by trading in one ring for another. The catharsis that comes from the experience of picking out something for her right hand that symbolizes freedom and living an authentic life doesn’t occur over night. It is just one step of letting go of what was, what might have been, and moving toward what will be.

In this particular case, two small children are also involved, one old enough to ask questions. Children notice small details and may inquire about the absence of a ring, especially if the dynamic at home has been tense. With reports of a visit from child protective services to the Woods estate, this likelihood increases.

Modern Love can’t predict the outcome of Tiger and Elin Woods marriage. However, trading in a wedding ring for a freedom ring can be an important step in a woman’s journey towards healing and wholeness. It takes courage and willingness to admit that the union is past the point of reconciliation, and only Tiger and Elin can decide if they’ve reached that junction.

In the meantime, a British tabloid likens Tiger's infidelity to that of David Beckham's. In 2004, he was accused of an affair with his secretary. As recently as May 2009, he defended himself stating he had no time nor interest in women other than his wife of ten years and former spice girl, Victoria Beckham. Nevertheless, the similarities in these stories suggest that marriages in this league - high profile athlete, lovely wife, rumors of infidelity, and concerns about sponsorships provide an important take home message. Look to the relationships you admire, and seek counsel from those who have dealt with similar hurdles. Find trusted mentors, people who can be trusted to keep confidences and a balanced perspective. Most importantly, they must be individuals that both partners feel comfortable sharing their concerns with (and not, for example, Tiger's mother, who has been accused of meddling in their marriage).

This philosophy could work for Elin and Tiger. By befriending and seeking advice from other high profile couples who have survived infidelity, as well as professionals trained to facilitate reconcilations, they can shorten the distance between them if salvaging their marriage is still on the table.

Related articles: Tiger Woods, addicted to meddling mom, jeopardizes marriage

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