Originally Posted by kp2171
the past is the past and you know you can't change bad decisions. having been cheated on by two previous big loves, i dont take kindly to those who stray. having about lost my mind when my grandfather, my father figure, died, i know how easy it is to make really bad decisions. i didnt cheat, but i was an idiot for over a year.
so... you are where you are and you are here to get help understanding what you should do.
well... you dont feel emotional balance with your husband, he is too absent from your life both physically and mentally, and you are worried about your childrens feelings.
im all for doing the hard work to save a marriage, but unless you really want it and unless you both can open up and openly talk things through, there isnt much of a future other than you both being the parents of a child. whether its counseling or you both slogging it out together, the time is now. if you are done, he deserves a chance to move on sooner than later. if you are done, i dont see why you should stay.
the young boy will most likely not resent you whatever you choose. its a mess no matter what, but its one that can be weathered, even if its not convenient for you, your husband, or the boys father.
the child is not reason enough to leave for the other man. the daughter is not reason enough to stay with your husband. you own the decision to stay or leave and it doesnt come down to what is best for the child. as a father i understand you make decisions and sacrifices for your children, but ultimately it is your decision. it has nothing to do with the potential resentment of a future 18 year old or the current stress of an 8 year old. once you make the choice, its all yours.
so... the lover you would be with offers an emotional connection that your husband doesnt have with you. what is his history? he slept with a married woman, we know that. why believe what you had with him isnt just the thrill and excitement of the chase... learning about and knowing that new person?
honestly... if you leave your husband, it should be for you. not for the other man. time away from both might be what you need to understand where you stand.