Validating (to me) is nothing more than showing the Spouse that no matter what they say the possibility of dialogue and communication exists.
What they say is tastelss, stupid, wrong, and it takes everything you have not to tell them so and say instead, "I understand how you feel." Or something similar.
Validating lays the ground for future communications.
I am sorry you didn't have the opportunity to use it.
As BS as validating seems, it is a useful tool in dealing with the MLCer.
Experience is a brutal teacher, but you learn. My God, do you learn. - C.S. Lewis
Life is usually all about how you handle Plan B. - Jack3Beans
Listen without defending; Speak without offending - FaithinAK
