Somewhere I read/heard an analogy that helped me: when you're facing a large quagmire, the fastest way is straight through, not around. It's a mess when you're in it, but you'll be better off once you reach the other side.
Do try to find the silver lining, there is one if you look. Get in touch with the parts of yourself you've lost or set aside over the years. While I wouldn't wish this sitch on anyone, I do feel like I've grown a lot and am in a much better place than I was before it started.
If you love somebody, set them free. http://tinyurl.com/2empx2g
