Yes, our H's are suffering from low self esteem, and are in for a rude awakening when they realize that their happiness has to come from within. I totally agree re: having to earn his way back into your life. I believe if I had done that the first time, I would not be right back in the same situation again. My H had no real consequences, therefore he now has no real fear of losing me. He may feel he can come back when he gets good and ready.
Also, I believe that when a person is truly happy you CAN hear it. They will NOT have to persuade anyone into believing they are happy, you will sense a difference within that person. I sometimes feel sorry that they are now truly living a lie and it is killing them inside.
Thanx for stopping by my thread, I replied to you there.
Hope your day is well
AMI
H-29
amIow(me)-30
son-8
married 8 yrs
"together" 10 yrs