Q. A little over a year ago, my fiancé broke up with me. He said I wasn’t growing with the relationship, and that I was selfish for keeping him around knowing that I didn’t want the same things he did. He also has a very volatile personality, so conversations with him often turned into arguments, which turned into name calling (on his part, not mine).
I’ve tried to handle things amicably but it hasn’t gone well. We were still sleeping together occasionally until about two months ago. I still have feelings for him, and sometimes he reciprocates, but in the end, there are too many hurt feelings to get over. I’ve finally realized I can’t do it anymore.
My problem is that all of his things are still at my apartment. I’ve boxed everything up, which wasn’t easy, and put everything in storage in my basement. He has reached out repeatedly over the last six months or so stating that he would be grabbing his things (he has a key to the storage area, not the apartment), but he still hasn’t done it. On top of that, he gets angry and will lash out via text and over the phone about how he wants the furniture in the apartment, etc. So I guess my question is: What do I do with all of his things? Do I just leave them there until he finally comes to get them? I feel like I don’t have closure. I love him but I know that we will never be able to be where we once were, and the stagnancy of the situation is making me insane.
I Have His Stuff, Boston
A. You’re in Boston, not New York City, which means you’re probably six degrees of separation from someone with a truck. Now is the time to tell everyone you know that you’re looking for assistance with a move. Ask friends and family to help you find a vehicle/labor so you can get your ex’s stuff out of the apartment as soon as possible.
Tell your ex, meanwhile, that the storage space must be used for something else, and that unless he has a specific plan for his belongings, you’re happy to arrange a drop-off (and a pickup of that key).
If you can’t find anyone with a truck, it’s worth renting one for a day. It’s an expense — and not a tiny one — but you’re seeking to preserve your peace of mind. It makes sense to spend the money to clear out your basement — and your head.
Don’t let this go on and on until he’s ready to get organized. You’re allowed to set the terms so that you can move on.
Meredith READERS RESPOND:
I agree and disagree with Meredith. I would skip the step where you allow him another opportunity to arrange the pickup. Get the truck, pack it all up, and tell him you will be dropping off at (date time place) that’s convenient for you. I had a friend who went through this and this was the route she ended up having to take. Take charge of your life.
RUKIDDINGME
Meredith, I’m so disappointed with your advice. This woman has been verbally abused and you tell her to hire a truck to move his stuff? Tell him the stuff is on the curb and change the storage lock! Move on! GSKA
I think Meredith probably gave that advice because the guy sounds like he might have a temper and just throwing his stuff out with out at least a warning could cause the letter writer some trouble.
SCOISHVELOCIRAPTORMALOISH
I would pay a lawyer for an hour of his time. Have the lawyer send him a letter informing him that he has 30 days to remove his stuff or it will be discarded. Send it by certified mail so he can’t say he didn’t know. Cut all ties, if you are serious about moving on.
GONETOTHEDOGS39
I’ve been divorced for like six years now and I still have stuff in her basement. Hell the girl I dated in Richmond 28 years ago still has my record collection. I swear Melissa, I’ll swing by next week to pick them up!!! JDROTTEN
Column and comments are edited and reprinted from boston.com/loveletters. Send letters to meredith.goldstein@globe.com.
