I cannot grasp how reconciling with me would be harder/more painful than living without our children.
It just goes to show that I still haven't understood what the problem is, I suppose.
Something that helps me deal with it a little is the idea that my H feels 'stuck' in our relationship. The only thing he can think to do is to run away in order to overcome this crushing feeling. It's as if he feels he has no choice if he is to survive...
And yes, I share your hope about having a better relationship with our spouses in the future. Our kids will surely be a big part of it.