I've not posted here in well over a decade and honestly hadn't thought much prior to a month ago about the events that greatly shaped my life back then. It's a memory and I've come to terms with it.
My wife had a brief excursion from our marriage towards the end of 2011. It was short and discovered quickly. We stayed together through many painful years and like all things, it faded. She never even thought about straying after that. We rebuilt our marriage and it was stronger than before. It was a learning experience for both of us and we moved on.
After we rebuilt our marriage, it was one of abundant joy. We were genuinely happy with one another. I really can't overstate how much we enjoy each others company and how big of a smile we bring to each others faces. It's really great.
A few weeks ago my wife was diagnosed with a incurable terminal illness. It is fatal in 100% of cases. This is life and we are not immune from bad things happening. The one thing she can't seem to let go was how badly she hurt me and the fact she did it with intention.
After our reconciliation we never talked about it again. I've recently learned that this has absolutely haunted her ever since. This has probably caused her more trauma than it has me. She just can't seem to forgive herself even though I did a long time ago. This is just miserable for her and I'd take it away if I could.
I just wanted to put this out there. If you are thinking about straying, understand the damage done may be to you and it may last a lifetime. The brief joy you might get will never outway the damage you may cause.