Advice Column: Reader Struggles with Partner's Ongoing Daily Contact with Estranged Wife
By
R. Eric Thomas
Crisp on the outside, thoughtful on the inside. A keeper.
Summary
A letter writer expresses frustration about her partner of 18 years who remains legally married to his separated wife. He texts his wife daily, pays for her expenses, and she still lives in the house he built. The writer feels upset about the ongoing emotional and financial connection, especially as her partner now faces a potential serious illness. The advice columnist (Eric) provides perspective on the situation.
Key quotes
· 5 pulledIt does upset me that they text every day or talk several times a week.
He's always paid for everything for her because he says it's his fault she has no income because he wanted her to be a stay-at-home wife and mother.
I've never taken any money from him or asked him to cover anything for myself or my children.
Eighteen years ago, I got into a relationship with someone who was separated from his wife.
He was upfront about never wanting to remarry, but in no hurry to get divorced either.
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