It's really admirable that you were able to pick up the pieces and start again. I can't think of how that must have felt, what a horrible move that was of his. I'm glad you can look back and know that you pushed through it and came out the other end the better person.
It worked well for him and his family. Cars, holidays, status. None of it means anything though, because no matter how much he furnishes his life with, he will still be him, no matter what.
Conversely, I am me and sometimes that's ok.
Seeing what I'd worked towards my entire life evaporate and knowing that clawing my way back was going to be so difficult was a hard pill to swallow. Fortunately I made it work. (I was just going to type, I don't know how, but in truth I know exactly how.)