I wanted to address the issue with the box. As you may remember, I went through somewhat of a MLC before my H started his. He didn't open the box, for the same reason that when we have an open wound, we don't like looking under the bandage. He didn't want to be reminded of the big gaping hole in his life. As long as that wound is covered, it doesn't hurt. Avoidance is key to a person in MLC.
The box might not have contained anything out of the ordinary, but to him the box represents a part of his life that he is missing. Until he is ready to deal with it, he will avoid anything associated with it.
When I was in MLC, I avoided using a gift card my H gave to me. I didn't want to have to think about him, or purchase anything with it, that would remind me of him, and our situation. It wasn't a lack of respect, I just didn't want to deal with it.
My H has avoided a lot of things this past year. I couldn't tell you how many times sleep has been his excuse for not being able to answer a simple question, or have a short conversation with me. Another good one has been that his cell phone is low on charge. It's frustrating, but I guess it's all they can give us right now.
Have a merry Christmas Hope, and I hope that next year will be a new beginning for you.
