Midlife March Madness

[Ready2Change]

It was admittedly not as elegant....I think reality never turns out as perfect as we plan or would like.

Never is, but at least you have the "ideal" to strive for. "Always do your best" gives us a great way to live.

I listened and validated where ever I could. There were instances of spewing/fabrications that I could simply not listen to. I’m willing to hear a different perspective but I can’t abide a total revision of history. I kindly yet firmly enforced boundaries where necessary. It made her angry but I could also tell she kind of respected it. She didn’t storm off.

Definitely a balance. At times, I still get sucked into "man fixit mode" when listening to my lady. I can see that she just needs someone to listen to her. When I catch myself, I go back to listen mode.

At the end she said she thought it was a good talk and she even had a smile on her face.

I am sure she felt like you listened. STFU really works. Validation on her emotions works. Setting boundaries works.

I’m proud that this time I simply told her I don’t think it’s helpful for me to speak to this when you have been very clear in your actions that you don’t want any part of our marriage.

I believe this was a great statement. Hopefully others can pick it up and use it if needed.