Thanks for participating in this forum! It's a beacon of light during a very dark time for me.
First some info: Me 47, W 43 Together 25 years M 20 years S 18, S10
About 3 months ago, I noticed my wife stomping around, seemingly angry at everyone and everything. (About 3 months prior to this, she joined the gym, made new friends etc.) I took her out of the house for a drive and asked her what was going on. First she said she didn't know what was happening, that she was confused. Later in the conversation, she said she felt trapped in an a sexless (too infrequent for both of us), emotionless marriage and she didn't want to do it anymore. I was in semi-shock, but I asked if she wanted a divorce, and he said she didn't know, but she needed some space.
She started individual counseling a week later and has continued since. Her counselor recommended a trial separation, which I agreed to. It is tough because she runs a business out of the house, but she shows up in the morning before kids get up and stays throughout the day while I'm at work. Since our initial R talk, I have made several changes. Working out regularly, lost 22 lbs., more present with family interactions, etc. I actually feel awakened, for lack of a better term. She says the changes are only temporary and won't last etc. I know that's not true, but I don't get defensive or argue. I would very much like to save this marriage, and we have started marriage counseling. The counselor suggested we keep this semi separation and that she come to the house for family dinners on Sundays, which she agreed to do. We've had one of those and it seemed to go just fine. While I haven't pleaded or begged, I have acknowledged my shortcomings in the marriage and apologized to her for how she feels. I also think it's likely there is an OM the picture, which, given her feelings when she finally let them out, would not be a surprise. I know the odds are strongly against me, but I can actually see a vibrant marriage rebirth if we can get through this.My wife checks almost every box on every MLC symptoms list you can find.
