Wow what a post. Today I stay because the good out weighs the bad. Some days that is not true. I stay because we have been honest with each other - completely honest - and I have never had that with anyone else. Because he thinks I am beautiful, smart, and he desires me(this after 22yrs). Because he is the father of my children - he was there for their birth and everything in between. Because he makes me laugh - at myself. Because he wraps me in that big bear hug and I feel cared for and safe. Because he is passionate about life.
Why does he stay? I think for all the asme reasons. It was sobering for me the first time I realized that he too thought seriously about leaving me. I think we are both doing it one day at a time.
I do think there is hope. Our relationship is better than two years ago. Less fighting, less bitterness - thanks to Alanon. So I do have hope. And yes, I too have a respect for my marriage commitment. This has been great. thanks