Hi Always, I'm back. You really seem to have a pretty good handle on this stuff, or it seems like it from what you write. But just so I can feel better about dishing out some words of wisdom - here goes....
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In fact, I need to stop asking that, since when I do, I have noticed that it's starting to bother him (hurts, like I don't have faith in this).

Absolutely, quit saying that. That's a real negative sinker, he's got to be wondering if that's what you really want.
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SO, it seems that we have gotten caught up in many misunderstandings, hurt feelings, bad behaviors, and somewhere along the way, stopping to fulfill each others LLs and "needs." To stop listening to each other.

Lots of stuff in that little statement. Pick it apart, make one item a priority and work on it first, then the next, and the next. You're very 'lucky' that you are able to talk and work about things together. I'm sure you know that, but don't take that lightly. I look forward to a time when my H and I are back to that place.

And really, don't be embarrassed about putting anything here. I've put out some awful personal innermost feelings and thoughts, it helps to shed them and move on.

Live your life while you are still living.
Riding the trail less traveled.