Got it, Steve. Thanks. Denial is not just a river in Egypt.
I guess the bottom line for me are these two questions:
(1) I can speculate and mind-read all I want about W's thoughts and actions, but will any scenario change the one thing over which I exert control: How do I respond lovingly, while also protecting my own interests?
(2) Am I confident enough in my capacity to navigate the future, regardless of outcome, that I can afford--during this period in W's existential state--to take considered and cautious emotional risks to help her? And to do this (faking it till I make it) with no expectations for myself?
