Tougher Than the Rest

[DCBHM]

I suppose the difficult thing is going back again and again and finding the same reaction from your W. But then again - maybe the cycle continues and you can really only control your part in the dance.

I know how soul-draining it is to try and effect change on someone who isn't putting in much effort. The fact you have continued thus far is a testament to your tenacity or you are a glutton for punishment.

If it is something worth doing however, it generally isn't easy. The easiest path for you at this point would be the S or the D... but it seems as though neither of you want that, yet neither of you know how to effect your usual dynamic - and it sounds like your frustration with this is going to be damaging to any attempts to better it.

I can't really preach patience too much since you have shown the patience of Sisyphus with similar result - but perhaps you can take it as slow as you can and try not to get frustrated.

Maybe... I dunno... develop your other interests, work on yourself, and let W join if she will.

I speak as someone who hasn't been at it as long as you have, but I am a master at recognizing what doesn't work. You can't have the same reactions to the same song and dance. Find a way to change the tune, or recognize whether your struggle is hopeless. You've obviously found some signs of hope (more than I have) and are encouraged to continue. Try not to rush it too much... you've come this far after all.