I’ll add that usually a spouse doesn’t return with some grand announcement. Some definitely are shook awake and the LBS certainly knows their spouse has turned some kind of corner in their journey. However, oftentimes, it is more a whisper of doubt. A small voice within them.
This is a scary time for a returning spouse. How will I be treated? Does my partner forgive me? Can they forgive me? Along with their guilt, shame, regret, remorse, and so on. And they most fear judgement. It’s quite an internal struggle for them. It takes a while for them to become more overt about things. The LBS has to dig deep for patience as their spouse slowly alters their trajectory.
I really like R2C’s wording for inviting W out. Non threatening and pretty pressure free.
D
Feelings are fleeting. Be better, not bitter. Love the person, forgive the sin.
