To Date or not to Date?

[Greek]

FaithAK,
My opinion is that one should not date while married. Period. Three reasons:

First of all, to honor the vows.

Second, if there were ever to be a reconciliation, dating while separated would create yet another issue to deal with while trying to piece.

Finally, I do not think it is fair to the person you date. A married person is not free to fully engage in a healthy, committed relationship. That is possible when one has closure on the marriage, has expolored thier own part in the erosion of the former relationship, and has done work to heal.

I have a friend who met her current H while he was separated from his W. He pursued her. She refused to have a date with him until he could show her the D decree. Smart lady. She was respectful of his vows, aware that separated people often do yo yo back and forth, and she was also aware that he had some issues (grief, responsibility, reconnection with self) to work through. They are still happily, in a strong marriage. She's glad she stood her ground and that he had the time to do the work.

Greek