Second Chances?

[Chazz]

Originally Posted by proximitywithoutintimacy

Just wondering what everyone's thoughts are on second chances... what is forgiveable, what isn't, etc.? Are space and time really as important as everyone says?

I'm going through a very rough time right now; I don't want to pour out the details and upset everyone, but let's just say falling in love with someone, has proved not to be as scary as potentially losing them... </3

Proximitywithoutintimacy, I'm sorry that you're going through a difficult time.

I'm going through a situation now, myself. Here's where I am with it.

Though we speak in terms of "second chances", they are after all, a form of forgiveness and let's begin again.

For me, second chances depend on both parties really knowing the nature of the wrong(s) done, and making a genuine commitment to never do them again. Even then, it must be understood that a period of healing and trust rebuilding is to be expected and respected.

Both parties have to fully face the damage done to one another and the relationship - not simply want things to snap back into place as if they had never happened.

Also, second chances should not be an excuse to switch an unhealthy power and control dynamic from one person to another.

It's been my experience that this is a lot to hope for. Trust once broken is hard to repair. It can cause a permanent shift in someone's feeling towards another.

Infidelity is often seen to be the deal breaker. It's my experience that infidelity is usually the fete de compli. The culmination of many less obvious betrayals. What about them? Is it ever possible to identify or agree on all of them? Are both parties honest enough, mature enough, well enough to take on that depth of work?

In reality, were things ever that terrific that so much time and energy should be put into healing and repairing a damaged relationship? Are one or both parties yearning for the impossible - a return to a honeymoon phase? Is codependency keeping two people together because they don't want to face their personal demons and get on with their lives?

I don't mean to be a party pooper, but I think these are important questions to ask oneself when considering a "second chance". For me, the answer was "NO".

[The_Lady_Snow]

There are no second chances in Snow's World, I hope you can come to a decision that is healthy for you Prox!! Good luck!!!

[Corkey]

Losing the person is preferable to loosing ones self. Do what is right for you, we can't tell you what that is.

[LaneyDoll]

Originally Posted by Chazz

Infidelity is often seen to be the deal breaker. It's my experience that infidelity is usually the fete de compli. The culmination of many less obvious betrayals. What about them? Is it ever possible to identify or agree on all of them? Are both parties honest enough, mature enough, well enough to take on that depth of work?

I agree! I once forgave a cheater, and guess what??? They cheated again, and probably more than once. I will forgive a lot of things, but at this point, infidelity is not one of them.

@proximitywithoutintimacy, if they truly need time and space then it may be the trick. Use that time to focus on you and get yourself back into a better headspace. The main thing you need to do is to make a choice that suits you and your situation. What works for me, or anyone else here, may not necessarily work for you.

Best of luck to you!

[Apocalipstic]

What kind of mistake was it?

[lillith]

As Chazz has pointed out, there are a lot of things to consider. I find that I can forgive, but I cannot forget. And, no time does not heal all wounds, just allows you the distance to see things without the fear of being exposed. Second chances are rarely ever what they seem. Most people give up half way through, and that is that.

Looking back on my life, there are maybe two people I would consider saying, "Hey, how about we try that again." Honestly, though, that possibility will never become a reality because neither of us want it. I agree with others, it is best that you figure out what is sane and healthy for you. Good luck, Prox.

[pajama]

As many have said, if she's asking for time and space, then give it. And give it honestly, don't check in every other day to see if it's been "long" enough. LOL

It all depends on the transgression and, of course, the people. But I've know it to not work, and I've known it to work. I had to step away from a person for almost two years. Give her space. Work back into her graces slowly. Finally after two years we were able to see where it goes again. And I am in a much better place to move it forward, and I think the relationship is in a much better place, with much clearer disclosure.

So give her the time/space she needs. Take that time to look at yourself, like why you did whatever it was that you did. What You want from this or any relationship. etc etc etc

It will get better in time. Hang in there.

A

[Heart]

Time and space is not really yours to give or to withhold. Your focus should be on you - your needs, feelings, and boundaries.

[proximitywithoutintimacy]

Replies... very... nice, thank you.

Ah, basically, I did a complete 180 - my last girlfriend was an abusive alcoholic, and this woman is so completely the opposite. She's absolutely amazing, and what did I do? Well, I pushed her away, time and time again. Thing is, I didn't exactly realise what I was doing until it was too late.

Isn't that how it always works, though?

Anyway, after many, many tears and "I love yous" we have mutually decided to be friends, and she is still planning on flying down here next week to see me - no promises, no expectations.

I'm just hoping that by showing her that I really do love her, and I never intentionally tried to hurt her, and that I'm going to be seeing someone to try and work out my issues with pushing away great people and trying to hold onto abusive people, maybe we can slowly work things out.

Again, thank you.