Cheryl Burke Reflects on Celibacy and Personal Growth After Divorce

Cheryl Burke Shares Insights on Celibacy and Self-Discovery

Cheryl Burke, a well-known former professional dancer from “Dancing with the Stars,” recently opened up about her love life during an appearance on iHeartRadio’s “I Do, Part 2” podcast. The dancer shared her experiences following her divorce from actor Matthew Lawrence and how these events have significantly altered her approach to relationships.

Burke candidly stated her decision to abstain from dating, emphasizing her contentment with solitude. “I’m not dating, and I’m choosing not to date. Like, forget the marriage,” she remarked in her conversation. She expressed a sense of satisfaction with her life at home, saying, “I am perfectly content in this home, with these four walls. I never have to leave.” This declaration highlights the importance of personal fulfillment over societal expectations regarding relationships.

Reflecting on the Past

When the podcast host inquired about the duration of her single status, Burke confirmed that it had been over a year since her last date. “Oh, for sure,” she responded and added that she currently has “zero interest” in meeting someone new. This statement reveals a deliberate choice to prioritize her own well-being over romantic pursuits.

Burke further elaborated on her emotional state, admitting she strolls through life with “blinders on.” Despite acknowledging that she still finds men attractive, she understands that physical attraction does not necessarily equate to compatibility or deserving a place in her life.

The Journey of Marriage and Divorce

Burke and Lawrence initially dated from 2007 to 2008 but rekindled their romance nearly a decade later in 2017. Their marriage in May 2019 ended with Burke filing for divorce in February 2022 after three years together. She revealed that her motivation for marriage stemmed from a desire to fulfill a personal goal rather than a deep connection with her partner. “At the time, my singular goal was to get married,” she confessed.

Now, Burke reflects on how societal pressures can influence personal decisions, particularly for women. She remarked, “It’s just so interesting how we put so much pressure, especially women, because we think that there’s this schedule that we need to follow regarding getting married and having kids.” This acknowledgment points to a broader issue affecting many individuals today—feeling constrained by conventional timelines for life milestones.

Self-Love and Internal Reflection

Upon contemplating her past decisions, Burke identified a critical truth: her choice to marry was more about external validation than an authentic love for herself. She revealed, “It had nothing to do with the person I married but more to do with my lack of love for myself and seeking something external to fill my cup up.”

Burke emphasized the need for self-love and internal work, stating, “No one is going to fill your cup up. Shopping’s not going to fill your cup up. You are.” This perspective underlines the significant role of self-awareness and mental health in fostering healthy relationships.

The Decision for Celibacy

After her divorce, Burke made a pivotal choice to embrace celibacy. She went public with this decision in an Instagram reel, noting that she has been celibate for three years. This personal journey towards celibacy aligns with her broader commitment to healing and self-discovery.

Burke pointed out that she tends to “fall in love fast,” a trait that complicates her approach to intimacy. She acknowledged that her past experiences often led her to idealize partners, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality. “This person and the fantasy of this person would completely take over,” she admitted, recognizing the toll this pattern took on her emotional well-being.

The Reality of Physical Connections

Expressing her views on past intimacies, Burke remarked, “The only thing that was real with whatever happened physically is that you allowed for it to happen.” This statement conveys the importance of consent and self-respect in intimate relationships. She also revealed that her previous casual relationships contributed to a gradual erosion of her self-esteem and identity. “It really just continued to chip away at my soul because, at the end of the day, that says a lot about me,” Burke concluded.

Empowering Personal Growth

Cheryl Burke’s journey is one of resilience and personal growth, as she navigates the complexities of love, marriage, and self-discovery. Her reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing self-worth and emotional health over societal expectations. As she continues on her path of celibacy and self-exploration, Burke encourages others to consider the value of introspection and the power of self-love in building a fulfilling life.