"Man The F*** Up" The Ultimate 180

[RedHawk98]

25! I can't quote every line, but you've summed up where my head and heart are now. I couldn't agree more with everything you've said.

I would be open to counselling, on top of the learning this experience has given me.
At the moment, I'm just enjoying feeling calm and positive for the first time in 18 months.

If my wife were to return, I'll keep the list as concise as possible;

* My wife and our marriage would be paramount to all other things, at all times.

* We would have privacy for the first time. With better boundaries for friends and family. (Which relates to the point above) This would also make for much less inhibited intimacy. (Our sex lives were so repressed without privacy)

* My ability to handle extremely stressful situations has improved. I also realise that trying to protect her from those was a colossal mistake.

* I myself would be happier in general. Due to, and because of, my more positive disposition. More ready and able to do fun things together, without worrying about money or other people taking up my time.

* I have regained a lot of confidence I lost. This means I enjoy putting more effort into my appearance.
I feel more like my old self, before the crash, but enhanced beyond that.

* My employment/career prospects have improved, meaning that not only does she no longer need to assist me near the end of the month, I can reasonably support both of us in having a family.

* Most of all, I have a clear head for the first time in years to actually LISTEN to every word my wife has to say. To make joint decisions that make us both happy.
Because we actually do want all the same things out of life.

When my wife said "I don't see a future with you." It meant a lot more than just another way of saying "I want a divorce".