Dr. David: My wife and I have recently separated after several years of difficulties. I did not want the separation, but she insisted on needing time to find herself. Now that we are separated, I have begun attending a Christian Singles program in another church and she is angry. She accuses me of looking for women, which is not true. What should I do? I still want to save our marriage, but since she was the one who wanted the separation, and wants little to do with me, I want to explore new possibilities in a safe environment. --Brian
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Dear Brian:
Your situation sounds very complex, and there are many things to consider. Your wife is struggling emotionally, and is asking for time to "find herself." This usually means that she has spent years caring for her home, children, family and perhaps career, and in the process has lost touch with herself. She needs time to reflect on her situation. What she does not need to worry about is you and what you might be doing to threaten her. While you may have the best of intentions, there is nothing safe about your environment. I'll explain.
You are vulnerable right now, given your recent rejection and hurt feelings both of which are reasonable when there is a significant loss. You didn't want the separation, and undoubtedly are still licking your wounds. But friendship of any kind with the opposite sex, especially with single women, can only spell disaster. Not only does it preclude you from the opportunity of reconciling with your spouse by creating more angry feelings, but you stand a great chance of falling into a "rebound relationship." These are rarely satisfying and only cloud the emotional picture.
Suggestions: Backup. Regroup. Make no rash decisions. Follow Solomon's advice when he says "In good times rejoice, but in bad times, consider" (Eccl. 7:14).
