I don't think validation is ever out of the picture.

Nor is noticing someone looks stressed and asking them about it.

For me, that's different than asking them how they feel all the time or thinking it is your job to fix their problems.

And forming emotional connections with your children and with friends is always good.


Me: 44
H: 44
Kids: 20, 16, 16, and 10
Together/Married: 22 years
H announced he was emotionally detached and considering D: 4/4/16
H announced he is going to try to stay and reconnect: 5/1/16