Hey Lodo - I was a navigator in the coast guard and am addicted to charts and maps. I especially like reading the large Delorme Gazetteer state atlas books.
What you have said in your ramblings the last couple days makes me think that your W is going to regret losing you in the future. She may not understand the importance of giving her heart and soul to someone for life, but I am sure it will hit her some day. You have the right attitude for a long term relationship. I like the five develomental stages that Michelle talks about. I so very desire to live in a relationship which gets to the fifth stage. I felt that I got to the fourth stage, but my W decided to take the easy way out instead of recognizing the our insignificant differences are something that can be accepted and appreciated.
I also like that you are taking the higher ground and remaining friends with her. She has done a terrible thing by betraying you with infidelity, and there is no way you should ever condone this, but it is good for you and her to not shut each other out of your lives forever. Who knows what will happen if you find someone else - it may be that you and your W drift apart so that your new lover does not feel jealous, but for the time being, friendship is the best way to end your marriage.
Take the time to heal your emotional wounds and I am sure you will find someone else that is more mature and dedicated to commitment in a relationship. You are a good man that deserves a deep, long and meaningful love of a good woman.
