I had a hard time separating the two as I had them wrapped up into a nice neat bundle...
but there is a difference (in my humble opinion and strongly based on my Christian beliefs)...as a parent you have a God given obligation to your children...no matter how tough things get you don't leave them and you never stop loving them or replace them with "new" children...
Being a spouse you still have a God given obligation to love, honor and respect your spouse...however, there are somethings that even God recognizes that would sever that bond...doesn't mean you have to take that route but it is there...adultery being one...but as I said, depending on the situation you don't have to automatically sever the marriage...you do however have a decision to make...I chose to stand and be ready to work things out when/if he returned...but, as I stated before I gave my all this time and if he was repeat it I am afraid that there would be no more for me to give...I would be done...and possibly in time I could replace him with a "new" H...
That to me is the difference...but by far the two persona's work best when together...a secure, loved and cherished wife makes a great mother and partner...and a respected, loved, and honored husband makes a great father and partner...but you can be one without the other...again, in my opinion.
Of course everyone of whatever belief system they have may feel differently...this is just how I, personally, feel...agree or not makes no difference to me...
I now have things in my marriage and my family set in better perspective...I have an identity separate from wife and mother...I am ME!...I also maintain a life separate from wife and mother...making me a better wife and mother!
